He noted that the ANGR always promotes dialogue between companies and regional authorities when differences arise and can lead to some sort of conflict to the detriment of the region.

"There are mining, oil and gas operations in nearly 80 percent of the regions and the relationship between authorities and private firms is good," he told Andina.

He said this is important to get resources to promote social and economic development of regions.

Villanueva recalled that during a recent ANGR-sponsored seminar on the use of the gas pipeline and the petrochemical industry, regional governments made it clear that they want companies to fully comply with environmental standards.

"And this is possible with technology, which should be a requirement for every transnational company that wants to operate in the country," he added.

(END) JCP/GCO/EEP