The oil runs out in Casanare and so do the resources, which is why Governor Cesar Ortiz Zorro urges alliances for the construction of industries that generate regional impact, preventing money from becoming atomized, and rather that they be executed in projects that transcend, such as agroindustrial plants, the promotion of tourism and the strengthening of health, education and agricultural sectors.
The topic was discussed at the forum held on Thursday in Yopal “Regional Hydrocarbons Meeting for a Productive Casanare”, with leaders of the oil industry and local authorities, where the present and future of the oil industry in the department was discussed.
The event was attended by the president of the National Hydrocarbons Agency, Orlando Velandia Sepúlveda, the representation of the industry by the President of the Colombian Petroleum Association Frank Pearl and Nelson Castañeda, president of the Colombian Chamber of Oil, Gas and Energy, as well as representatives of the companies present in the region.
The meeting sought to promote a dialogue on the opportunities facing the region, focusing on a strategic alliance for sustainable development.
The Governor of Casanare highlighted the need to triple the investment obtained from royalties to develop strategic projects that promote the economic growth of the department. He said that resources from the oil industry must be used effectively, investing in sectors such as agribusiness, tourism, health and education. “We want the resources generated by oil to be invested in the right way,” said the governor.
One of the key topics discussed was the works-for-taxes mechanism, a tool that will allow financing high regional impact projects through collaboration between the industry, the national government, mayors and the government. It was agreed to hold a technical table on June 15, where the strategic projects proposed by the mayors and the government will be studied.
During the forum, the historical importance of the oil industry for regional development was recognized, but the need to diversify Casanare’s economy was also emphasized.
In addition, there was talk about the creation of a conciliation committee that will work to resolve conflicts between the industry and local communities, avoiding demonstrations and blockades that could delay important projects.
In terms of infrastructure, emphasis was placed on the need to improve roads and acquire machinery to face natural phenomena such as floods and landslides. The importance of projects such as the third and fourth level hospital, which is a priority for the department, was also highlighted.
