Manta-Manaus corridor to be built by 2011

The initiative is at the top of the list among the 31 projects of the South American regional infrastructure integration initiative (IIRSA), said Correa. "We will carry out that project during our government," confirmed the economist, who was elected to govern Ecuador from 2007 to 2011.

The project consists of the development of Ecuador's Manta deepwater port, recently awarded to Hong Kong-based Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) under a 30-year concession that will require a US$523mn investment from the concessionaire and US$55mn on behalf of the state.

Regional Connectivity

The terminal will be connected via land to port Francisco de Orellana, on El Napo river, said Correa.

In turn, the river will be dredged and Francisco de Orellana port will then be connected to Brazilian port Manaus through a system of locks, he added. The Brazilian port would lead to Atlantic port Bel鮬 in the same country, making the initiative the cheapest and quickest path to connect the Atlantic to Asia, he said.

A number of Asian investors have expressed interest in making connections to facilitate the transport of South American products to China and other Asian countries. These raw materials include metals, soy, and natural fibers produced in Brazil. The corridor would benefit the transport of these raw materials to Asia, and would also lower the transport costs of Asian goods imported into South America's Atlantic region.

Airport

Ecuadorian authorities are also planning to develop Manta's intercontinental airport terminal, which will be a complimentary initiative to the Manta port project, said Correa.

The airport is currently a US air force base, but the contract that allows the US to use that base is due to expire in 2009 and Ecuador's government does not plan to renew the agreement, he added. As such, the terminal's construction will launch in 2009.

Environmental Impact

"If we want no pollution at all, no environmental damage, we will go back to the age of the caveman," said Correa, adding that infrastructure works are necessary for the country's socio-economic development.

At the same time, authorities are focusing on causing the least impact possible, but are aware that some will be made and plan to carry out mitigation measures, especially of the port construction's effect on the Amazon river.

Left-winged economist Rafael Correa was elected president on November 27, after obtaining 56.7% of the votes against the 43.3% received by his right-wing opponent, banana tycoon ?varo Noboa.

Correa's government plan includes the development of the country's transport infrastructure network to boost commercial trade, developing potable water and sewerage services, and other basic services, increasing energy production, and improving Ecuador's agricultural production.

Correa will assume office on January 15.