The indigenous organization stated, “After unilaterally breaking off dialogue, the Government announced a military operation to clear the roads and repress the people. We call on the communities to maintain peaceful resistance and not fall into provocations.”

Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed that the talks between the Government and indigenous leaders of the Imbabura province, in the northern highlands, will not continue.

The official told reporters, “From now on, anything that happens in the context of the national strike will be their responsibility,” referring to indigenous groups.

Roundtable discussions between the Executive’s representatives and Imbabura leaders were expected to be established after an initial meeting last week. However, Reimberg considered that the other party had not complied with the agreement.

The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) responded to the Government’s announcement about the closure of the dialogue and pointed out that there are currently no real conditions for talks.

The organization stated that the Executive has opted for confrontation rather than openness, and warned that it will not accept meetings “under threats, persecution, or repressive measures.” jdt/iff/lam/avr