Qatari businessman Abdulhadi Mana A Sh Al-Hajri, close to the royal family, has purchased approximately 10,000 hectares on the Baguales plateau, about 50 kilometers from San Carlos de Bariloche. The acquisition was made through the firm Baguales Acquisitions S.A. to execute a mega-project in the energy and residential sectors. The project contemplates the construction of three micro-hydroelectric plants, known as ChiBa I, II, and III, on the Baguales stream, with an estimated capacity close to 920 kilowatts, according to the investment plan accessed by Noticias Argentinas agency. These facilities have 30-year water use concessions, granted by the Río Negro Provincial Water Department, and are intended to supply energy to the residential development itself. On the other hand, Qatar's investment plan in Latin America includes a luxury private residence integrated into an exclusive mountain tourist complex, designed under the concept of energy self-sufficiency. The investment is located in a Latin American region of high environmental value, characterized by mountain watercourses, sensitive biodiversity, and practically unaltered landscapes. The Governor of Río Negro, Alberto Weretilneck, met last year with the Ambassador of Qatar in Argentina, Battal M. Al-Dosari. During the meeting, they addressed topics related to fruit farming, livestock, and Río Negro agriculture, and explored opportunities to strengthen commercial exchange between the province and the Middle Eastern country. Weretilnick highlighted the quality of alfalfa, meats, pears, apples, and cherries—products with great export potential to Qatar. A work agenda was established to promote bilateral trade and position Río Negro products in international markets. Persian Gulf Capitals However, the project's relevance goes beyond the investment itself. On one hand, it reflects the growing interest of Persian Gulf capitals in Latin America, especially in strategic sectors such as energy and water. On the other hand, it reopens a sensitive debate in the region: the balance between development, sovereignty over natural resources, and social participation. Be that as it may, Qatari entrepreneurs, following the approach, have turned their gaze to southern Latin America, not only as an economic opportunity but also as a space to project long-term developments linked to energy, tourism, and control of key resources. The Latin American region, in this case Argentine Patagonia, has consolidated in recent decades as a strategic territory for foreign investment. The energy potential has once again made it an attractive destination for capital from different parts of the world, including countries like Qatar.
