Uruguay Roundup: Declaration of emergency, legal challenge, cocaine seizure

Declaration of emergency for security

Uruguayan Senator Manini proposed a declaration of emergency for security due to concerns about rising crime rates. He called for immediate action and suggested measures such as intensive police operations, creating a "border shield" against organised crime, and transferring dangerous criminals to maximum security facilities. According to Prensa Latina, he criticised the current lack of authority and called for a stronger fight against crime.

Bilateral trade with Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia and Uruguay have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a joint business council, aiming to advance trade relations. The Saudi delegation, led by Ahmed Al-Khamshi, and Uruguayan Deputy Foreign Minister Nicolas Albertoni, attended the inaugural meeting of the Saudi-Uruguayan joint committee. Uruguay's economy is expected to grow 3.4% this year and 3.5% next year, with the recovery of agricultural exports, increased cellulose production, easing of financial conditions, robust private consumption, and a recovery in real wages expected to support economic growth, Arab News reports.

Government faces legal challenge

The government of Uruguay is currently encountering a new legal challenge from activists who are seeking to compel it to disclose the details of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that it entered into with US-based e-fuels producer HIF Global in February. Officials signed the agreement to endorse HIF's plans for the establishment of a green hydrogen-derived methanol plant in the border city of Paysandú, and the construction of the plant, which is projected to produce 700,000 tonnes per year, is scheduled to commence next year.

Agricultural debt after drought

Uruguay’s Association of Accountants, Economists, and Administrators of Uruguay (CCEAU) warns of agricultural debt following drought, to be discussed at Agricultural Meetings with Argentina. The forum will also address market analysis, new technologies, and public policy prospects. The event is to take place on September 5 and 7 in the Lavalleja department, Prensa Latina reports.

Seizure of 61 kg of cocaine

Uruguayan officials confiscated 61 kg of cocaine from a car trying to enter the country from Argentina through the Libertador General San Martin Bridge. The cocaine was discovered in hidden compartments, and the driver was detained. According to Xinhua, the case is being referred to the Specialised Prosecutor's Office for Organised Crime.