12.$3 Billion Andean Tunnel

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina: 

Argentine President Cristina Fernandez is promising to help build a 14-mile (23-kilometer) tunnel through the Andes into Chile.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet also supports the project.

Argentina's state news agency says the tunnel and railway will cost US$3 billion.

The new tunnel would be at an altitude of 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) — almost 2,600 feet (800 meters) lower than an existing highway pass often blocked by snow.

Fernandez spoke Wednesday at an Economy Ministry event - AP.