Representatives of the governments of Spain and Bolivia have signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on the issue of dam safety.
The signing of this agreement will allow the commitments from the Conference of Ibero-American Water Directors to be developed.
The MOU has a duration of five years and includes technical assistance and the exchange of experiences between the two countries in such areas as the definition of policies, plans and technical regulations in the field of dam safety. It also provides for collaboration with research centers, universities and international technical agencies such as the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD). The agreement provides for collaboration mechanisms on the issue of technical training, the exchange of experts and personnel qualified to instruct specialists, the organization of technical visits, the exchange of information and best practices, and support for research, development and technology innovation.
Parties signing the agreement were:
- Isabel Barcia Tejerina, Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Food and Environmental Affairs
- Carlos Rene Ortuno, Minister for the Environment and Water of Bolivia
- Luis Carranza, Executive President of the Andean Development Corporation (CAF)
Tejerina called dams “infrastructures that are strategic for the water cycle” and said they are fundamental for tackling the risks of water shortages, droughts, and flooding, particularly in the current context of adaptation to climate change.
Ortuno said this agreement will allow Bolivia “to harness Spain’s extensive experience in water management, in a highly strategic field for Bolivia such as the security and management of dams, which serve to control supply, irrigation and energy generation.”
Bolivia recently inaugurated its 120-MW Misicuni hydro plant, in September 2017, and has several other hydropower projects under construction.
On the topic of civil works and dam safety, HydroVision International 2018, next June in Charlotte, N.C., U.S., will feature an entire six-session track. Click here to learn more about the topics being presented.
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