Cuenca. Hundreds of people from various social sectors such as indigenous people and workers protested at a “counter-summit” this Thursday in Cuenca against the government of the president of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, and the XXIX Ibero-American Summit taking place in that city.
Shouting “Out with Noboa,” the activists marched along one of the main road arteries of the capital of the province of Azuay and stopped at an intersection near one of the buildings that will host the regional event until Friday.
“They want to cover up this whole crisis, we are experiencing a serious energy crisis. Here the people who are present, peasant sectors, workers, students, urban groups, are raising their voices,” Abigail Eras, from the environmental group Hakuna Kai, told AFP. on the march.
Ecuador faces blackouts of up to 14 hours a day, one of the most restrictive measures imposed by the government due to the worst drought in six decades. The country also suffers from the terror of gangs linked to drug trafficking who impose themselves with massacres, kidnappings and extortion.
Some indigenous people dressed in traditional costumes launched claims against extractivism and in favor of caring for water, given the risk of rationing of that resource. One group carried Palestinian flags.
“Noboa has looked for a quieter city (for the summit). He thought that the city of Cuenca was going to remain silent. That is why the people do not agree with the heads of state coming to Cuenca to discuss the mining issue,” said protester Silvio Morocho.
The police, who reinforced security with armored vehicles and drones in colonial Cuenca, closely followed the march, which took place peacefully between harangues and live explosions.
“The important thing is that they (…) here act with dignity, that they do not damage the image that Cuenca is giving,” the city’s police commander, Colonel José Vargas, told the press.
The official confirmed that on Friday, when the presidential session of the meeting will be held, another mobilization is called to deliver a manifesto to the government.
For now, the XXIX Ibero-American Summit only has the presence of the King of Spain, Felipe VI, and the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, in addition to a total of 19 Ibero-American delegations at a lower level.
The mayor of Cuenca, Cristian Zamora, said on the social network
Among the forces that have called the so-called “Counter Summit of the People” is the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Conaie), which participated in revolts that overthrew three rulers between 1997 and 2005.
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#Demonstrators #protest #XXIX #IberoAmerican #Summit #Ecuador
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How does the presence of international leaders at the Ibero-American Summit, despite the ongoing protests, impact the legitimacy of President Noboa’s government and the summit’s goals?
## Interview: Ecuadorian Protests Overshadow Ibero-American Summit
**Introduction:**
Good evening, and welcome. Tonight, we discuss the protests overshadowing the XXIX Ibero-American Summit currently underway in Cuenca, Ecuador. Joining us tonight are [Guest 1 Name], a political scientist specializing in Latin American affairs, and [Guest 2 Name], a human rights activist with extensive experience working in Ecuador.
**Section 1: The Protests**
* **Host:** Since the start of the summit, hundreds have taken to the streets of Cuenca in a “counter-summit” protesting the government of President Noboa. What are the key issues driving these protests?
* **Host:** [Guest 1 Name], the article mentions various groups participating – indigenous communities, workers, students. What brings together such a diverse coalition of protesters?
* **Host:** [Guest 2 Name], the protesters are voicing concerns about the energy crisis and the influence of drug trafficking cartels. Can you elaborate on the severity of these issues and their impact on daily life in Ecuador?
**Section 2: Noboa’s Government and the Summit**
* **Host:** Some protesters believe that Cuenca was chosen for the summit specifically to avoid larger demonstrations. What are your thoughts on this, [Guest 1 Name]?
* **Host:** President Noboa has stated that the event presents an opportunity to discuss regional issues and cooperation. [Guest 2 Name], how do the protesters view this summit in light of their demands and grievances?
* **Host:** The King of Spain and the President of Portugal are among the few high-profile attendees. What message do you think their presence sends, particularly in light of the ongoing protests?
**Section 3: Moving Forward**
* **Host:** The article mentions that another mobilization is planned for Friday. What are the protesters hoping to achieve through these demonstrations?
* **Host:** [Guest 1 Name], what are the potential implications of these ongoing protests on the political landscape in Ecuador?
* **Host:** [Guest 2 Name], what are some potential solutions that could address the concerns raised by the protesters and lead to a more stable and equitable future for Ecuador?
**Conclusion:**
* **Host:** This has been a fascinating discussion shedding light on the complex situation unfolding in Cuenca. We thank both of our guests for sharing their insights and perspectives. Join us again next week as we continue to analyze pressing global events.
**Note:**
Remember to encourage interactive discourse, allowing your guests to respond to each other’s points and engage in a lively debate. Adapt the questions and discussion points as needed to reflect the flow of the conversation and delve deeper into specific areas of interest.
