CFK defends mining industry, urges corporations 'to be more responsible'

While attending a ceremony in Santa Cruz, President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner praised the Union of Governors of Mining Provinces (OFEMI), defended the mining industry from attacks by environmentalists, and urged corporations “to be more responsible” before society.

“No industry can ever be unfriendly with the environment or unsustainable if things are done in a responsible way,” she said as she opened a new mine in Puerto San Julián, in Santa Cruz.

She also urged the population not to deny the country “of an opportunity to engage in an activity that is underexploited,” and added she was willing to have “all debates and discussions on the matter,” since she is certain “much wealth can be extracted in benefit of the people in a completely sustainable way.”