Texaco has begun exploration activities. Some are in favor in the name of progress and the chance of oil money coming to Panama, a country with a huge external debt recovering from three years of crisis. Opposing voices are pleading for protection of the environment and indigenous cultures. The fact that this contract, which could affect so many people, was signed almost in secret is the root of many doubts and fears. In addition, Panamanians are looking south, to Ecuador, where the same oil company is producing petroleum with disastrous consequences for Amazon ecosystems.
Nobody wants that to happen in Panama.
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