Mercedes Canese

Mercedes Canese served as the Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy in Paraguay during the presidency of Fernando Lugo from 2008 to 2012. In her role, she was instrumental in negotiating energy agreements, particularly concerning the Itaipú Dam, which is a significant hydroelectric power project shared between Paraguay and Brazil. Canese has been vocal about the importance of protecting Paraguay's sovereignty in energy negotiations and has criticized the current government's approach to recent espionage allegations involving Brazil. She emphasizes the need for transparency and public involvement in negotiations to ensure that Paraguay's interests are adequately represented.