"The prior consultations were carried out respecting, recognizing and valuing the cultural expressions of indigenous communities, as well as the current legal framework," highlighted the head of Minem, Jaime Gálvez.

In August, the Prior Consultation with representatives of the native Quechua people of San Andrés, located in the district of Puquio (Lucanas, Ayacucho), regarding the authorization to begin exploration activities for the Monica Lourdes project of Nexa Resources, was satisfactorily completed.

"We agree with Minem's authorization for the development of the Monica Lourdes exploration project (...) we expressly request that the Prior Consultation process be concluded", states the minutes signed by the community..

Then, in October, more than 50 representatives of the campesino community of Hacca, located in the district of Omacha (Paruro, Cusco) unanimously agreed that Minem should grant authorization to begin exploration activities for the Jasperoide project of the KA Oro company.

"We received adequate information about the exploration project and we also know our collective rights," states the minutes signed by Hacca's representation.

"Both processes of prior consultation were executed respecting, recognizing and valuing the cultural expressions of the community in a climate of trust, collaboration and mutual respect," said Jaime Galvez.

"In order to efficiently carry out the preliminary informative workshops, the Minem included in the technical team a Quechua interpreter accredited by the Ministry of Culture. Similarly, the health prevention protocols against COVID-19 that have been agreed with the MINSA for the different actions and stages of the Prior Consultation were successfully implemented in all the processes that are being carried out.

Minister Gálvez congratulated the General Office of Social Management (OGGS), which leads the processes of Prior Consultation in the mining and energy sector, for the work done and for continuing to promote the development of sustainable mining activities that respect the rights of indigenous populations.