In the context of growing international interest in the future of the Main Navigable Waterway, executives from Jan De Nul were received on Thursday morning by the United States Ambassador to Argentina, Peter Lamelas. The official meeting focused on presenting firsthand the company’s vision, technical capabilities, and investment plans ahead of the upcoming tender process for the Paraná-Paraguay Hidrovía, a key strategic corridor for the export of production from the Industrial Belt.
During the meeting, Jan De Nul representatives described the operational structure of the Belgian-Argentine consortium they form with the local company ServiMagnus. They detailed the characteristics of the state-of-the-art dredgers and buoyage tools that would be used if they win the bid, as well as the planned infrastructure works to optimize navigability on the Paraná River.
Technological Alliance with the West and River Safety
One of the most notable points of the meeting was the confirmation of the background and technical proposals submitted in their bid. Jan De Nul certified to the diplomat that all the technology, equipment, and supplies to be implemented along the route come from Western countries, with special emphasis on U.S. suppliers. As an example, they specified that the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) monitoring systems and cameras belong to American companies.
According to the company, this technology will not only ensure the efficiency and safety of commercial navigation but will also serve as a tool for cooperation and intelligence to actively collaborate with authorities in the fight against smuggling and drug trafficking in the Hidrovía region.
Strong Rejection of Claims Involving Chinese Capital
The Belgian-origin company used the meeting at the diplomatic headquarters to directly address recent media reports. Through an official statement, they categorically denied claims circulating in various media outlets that attributed any commercial or contractual relationship with Chinese state-owned companies.
Toward the end of the meeting, the executives reviewed the company’s track record, highlighting its 30 years of experience and continuous work on the main navigable waterway supporting the development of Argentine agro-industrial exports. They also committed to continuing to coordinate efforts and to involving American companies in future engineering projects under the new concession.