China pushes forward South America railway schemeMay 23, 2015 - 20:35 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - A Chinese scheme to build an east-west railway across South America, cutting across parts of the Amazon rain forest, has moved a step closer after Peru agreed to study the proposal, BBC News reports. The scheme would link Peru's Pacific coast with Brazil's Atlantic shores. The decision came after talks between the Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang, and Peruvian President Ollanta Humala. If completed, the railway would stretch 5,300km (3,300 miles) but campaigners fear the impact on indigenous people. Brazil, China and Peru will now begin feasibility studies into the railway. Li secured Brazil's consent earlier this week, as part of his tour of Latin America. The railway would "consolidate Peru's geopolitical position as a natural gateway to South America", President Humala said. For China, it would reduce the cost of shipping raw materials and farm products. But campaigners are concerned it might destroy untouched parts of the Amazon rainforest, affecting hundreds of indigenous communities. Li sought to ease fears, saying "to create the infrastructure, it is necessary to protect the environment" in a declaration with Humala. It is likely to cost more than $10 billion. The route is still being examined, but would begin in the gigantic Brazilian port of Acu and ending at a Peruvian port. The Chinese President, Xi Jinping, pledged earlier this year to invest $250 billion in Latin America over the next decade. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |