China to Explore Oil in Costa Rica

[Russ]

I heard on the radio yesterday that part of the China trader's (Arias) booty was a deal for oil exploration.

He would have to take down the moratorium imposed by the last Presient, Pacheco. 

Has anyone else heard this?  I couldn't find it in the online editions of today's papers, although I did read about the RECOPE - China pact to increase capacity and refine Venezuelan oil here for shipment to China.

[Russ]

This was confirmed by AM Costa Rica:

Proposal for oil drilling brings two quick, negative reponses
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
 
 The second-largest political party in the legislature and a group of long-time foes to oil drilling have come out against a plan by China to seek petroleum here.

This sparked quick replies from the PAC party and Oilwatch

Also in La Nacion today:
Chinese Mission will Analyze Energy

They stated that the Chinese would be analyzing the possibilities and that the moratorium does not exist - it was never formalized by Pacheco in a decree I'm not sure about that, although I know it was never passed as a law.

[varox]