Chile and Bolivia are ready to sign an initial bilateral agreement regarding the Silala waters but the document has not yet been made public. After years of discussions, officials from both countries finally finished drawing up the document, as the first step in the implementation of a legal framework.

Chile and Bolivia agreed on two principal points: that the waters are shared by both countries and that both countries have the right to benefit from the use of them. The ministries made sure they drew up a document that allows a framework in accordance with the legislations in both countries, and one that enables users to pay for the waters if necessary.

Bolivia will therefore be able to grant permits, if necessary, to use some of these waters, he added.The final version of the document was reviewed at a meeting held in La Paz on 29-30 June 2009.

The real value of these waters has increased tremendously over the last few years, as they have become vital for mining companies operating in the Chilean north, while Bolivian officials argue that if the water was not artificially channeled, it would naturally flow towards Potosí department, which does not have enough water for human consumption or industrial activities.

Related news:

• Bolivia, Chile: authorities closer to initial agreement regarding Silala waters, Source Weekly, 28 Apr 2009
• Collaboration overcomes constraints, Source Bulletin, Nov 2007

Related web sites:

• UN-Water Task Force on Transboundary Waters
• Oregon State University - Program in Water Conflict Management and Transformation

Source: Eva Medalla, BNamericas [subscription site], 01 Jul 2009

Tags: latin america & caribbean, policies & legislation, water resources management