News Releases & Statements

October 18, 2006

Chevron Contacts International Commission of Jurists Responding to Amazon Watch Allegations

The Hon. Arthur Chaskalson
President
International Commission of Jurists

Dear Justice Chaskalson:

Since late 2005 the Amazon Defense Front (FDA) and attorneys for the plaintiffs in the ongoing environmental lawsuit against Chevron in Ecuador have made allegations about crimes and acts of harassment against their representatives. We have no knowledge of these alleged crimes and acts of harassment, other than from the statements and news releases issued by the FDA, the plaintiffs' attorneys and from news reports.

I can state categorically that neither Chevron nor any of its representatives would sanction, encourage or participate in any such acts. We believe that Ecuadorian law enforcement authorities should properly investigate any and all legitimate claims of crimes or harassment, and it is in the interest of all parties that a safe and secure environment be ensured for the judicial process to proceed.

It must be noted here that while the FDA and other supporters of the plaintiffs have deliberately inferred or suggested a connection between Chevron and these alleged acts of criminal conduct and harassment, they provide absolutely no evidence to support such a claim because there is none. To suggest that Chevron in any way has any association with alleged acts to intimidate plaintiffs' attorneys or others is both baseless and repugnant.

To the contrary, Chevron has consistently insisted that the judicial process proceed in a fair and transparent manner, and that the safety of all participants is of paramount importance. Ironically, Chevron has received reports that the FDA, which is allied with the plaintiffs, has tried to induce or intimidate witnesses in order to obtain favorable testimony. For its part, Chevron will continue to do everything in our power to protect the safety of all parties associated with the ongoing trial. We encourage the Ecuadorian government, the FDA and the plainitffs' attorneys to do the same.

Sincerely,

Edward B. Scott
Vice President and General Counsel
Chevron Upstream & Gas

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