Kirchner and Evo Morales sign integrationist agreement

BUENOS AIRES, July 29.—The presidents of Argentina, Néstor Kirchner, and Bolivia, Evo Morales, emphasized the Latin American focus and the integration oriented essence of the new energy sector agreements signed by the two countries.

During a public event in the Hurlingham neighborhood of the capital, Morales expressed thanks for the solidarity demonstrated by the Argentine government in accepting a price increase in the natural gas that Bolivia exports to that country.

He expressed his willingness to increase the sale volume of the vital fuel to Argentina, which currently purchases 7.7 million cubic meters daily, and said that he would continue negotiating the price of that resource with other governments.

"More than 70% of our population is indigenous and they have the right to benefit from their natural resources," Morales affirmed during his brief visit to Buenos Aires.

He lauded the collaboration of his Argentine counterpart in resolving Bolivia’s problems and also mentioned the assistance received from Venezuela and Cuba on diverse issues.

In turn, the Argentine president praised the nobility and generosity of the dialogue with his guest, and stated that the agreements signed will contribute to the growth of both countries.

He indicated that the accords will guarantee an energy balance in the region and that they represent a significant step towards the construction of the Northeastern Argentine Gas Pipeline and the Grand Gas Pipeline of the South.