Salvador - The head of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources at the Interamerican Development Bank (BID), Assuncion Aguillar, says that the institution is interested in investing in environmental sanitation in all of Latin America, in governmental or private sector projects. "We are not in favor of either governmental or private sector projects. We are interested in financing what works best and is most efficient," said Aguillar.

The IDB does not have a fixed ceiling on its investments, Aguillar explained, adding that loans depend on country needs and payment capabilities. She also revealed that for this year and 2005, a total of US$335 million has been earmarked for Brazil (pre-approved projects).

Aguillar made her remarks at a seminar for specialists from Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay on public policy for financing quality water supplies and sewage treatment in the Southern Cone.

Agência Brasil
Reporter: Marina Domingos
Translator: Allen Bennett
08/19/2004