The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) has issued a statement to the authorities of the Xinka Parliament, the Xinka population, and the people of Guatemala regarding the ongoing consultation process for the Escobal mining project.
According to a ruling dated September 3, 2018, by the Constitutional Court in case file 4785-2017, the consultation process concerning the Escobal mining project remains underway.
The MEM emphasized its commitment to good faith, mutual respect, and transparency during consultations with the Xinka Parliament. The ministry stated: "The MEM reiterates its commitment to the principles of good faith, mutual respect and transparency within the consultation process with the Xinka Parliament; and in accordance with these principles, as established since October 14, 2020, any communication or publication pertaining to this Ministry about said process must be made in consultation with the Xinka Parliament."
Recently, an update was published on MEM’s website regarding a proposal from Pan American Silver Guatemala S.A. The ministry clarified that this proposal had not been discussed with the Xinka Parliament prior to publication.
On September 12 of this year, Minister Víctor Hugo Ventura Ruiz met with representatives from the Xinka Parliament at their request to address concerns about this publication. During this meeting he offered a verbal apology and reiterated his commitment to uphold minimum agreements for dialogue so that similar incidents do not occur again. The ministry also indicated that measures have been taken to improve communication between MEM and the Xinka Parliament.
"The Ministry of Energy and Mines -MEM-, maintains its position of respect towards the authorities and People Xinka, expressing its commitment to maintain harmonious relations and respect for established agreements and actions developed in the consultation process," stated MEM.
The ministry’s statement comes amid ongoing discussions over indigenous rights related to resource extraction projects in Guatemala. The government is required by law to consult indigenous communities on such projects under international conventions.
Alerts Sign-up