“From this historic place we reaffirm our determination to be free and sovereign,” he said in reference to external threats against natural resources.
In the televised message of almost ten minutes, the dignitary reiterated that independence and freedom are again under threat, by external interests that wish to appropriate strategic natural resources, such as lithium, rare earths, water and biodiversity.
Bolivia has one of the largest lithium reserves in the world with 23 million quantified tons, and also has deposits of cobalt, copper, the so-called rare earths, important reserves of fresh water and a wide biodiversity.
In reference to this strength, from the place where independent Bolivia was born on August 6, 1825, Arce called for unity and commitment to consolidate industrialization, end dependence on fuel imports and ensure food security.
“Industrialization is not just a goal – the president clarified – it is the key to guarantee true economic independence and build a dignified future for all.”
He assured that this initiative will not stop despite the external and internal problems that his Administration faces.
“We will continue to advance steadily in security with food sovereignty to make our country a power in food production,” Arce confirmed.
He announced a qualitative leap to break the dependence on fuel imports, while protecting biodiversity and working on economic and social policies for “the well-being of every Bolivian man and woman.”
He stressed that this is the heart of the Community Economic Social Model that aims to grow by bridging economic and social gaps.
During the message in which he reiterated the call for unity, Arce was accompanied by the vice president, David Choquehuanca, the Minister of Culture, Decolonization and Depatriarchalization, Esperanza Guevara; as well as the presidential delegate for the Bicentennial, Martín Maturano.
Also present were the governor of Chuquisaca, Damián Condori; the president of the Departmental Assembly, Ricardo Zárate; the mayor of Sucre, Enrique Leaño; and the president of the Federation of Private Entrepreneurs, Teresa Dalenz.
This intervention is part of the more than 300 activities scheduled for the Bicentennial of independence, an event that will take place on August 6 of this year.
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