Lima, November 18 (ANDINA-RHC)-– The Peruvian government will spend some $586 million for the development of the VRAEM area in 2015, announced the Executive Secretary of the Multisectoral Commission for Pacification and Economic Development of the VRAEM (Codevraem), Luis Rojas.

The remote jungle area known as VRAEM refers to the Valley formed by the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers (Vraem).

VRAEM has been considered a danger zone due to the presence of drug trafficking and terrorism. The valley has the optimal conditions to enable locals produce large amount of cocaine. Peru’s law enforcement has engaged in conflicts with the insurgents in charge of protecting the illegal drug production.

In the last 3 years and a half, the Peruvian government’s presence in this territory grew 70 percent, Rojas explained. "Some $1,700 million will be invested next year in key sectors such as transport (highway), social programs, housing and agriculture. The work is permanent and silent, in order to provide progress opportunities to its population," expressed the Executive Secretary in an interview with the official newspaper El Peruano.