The Amazon Rainforest is fighting for a spot among the new 7 natural wonders of the world.

Yván Vásquez Valer, president of Loreto’s regional government, said that with less than 48 hours remaining, the contest was very close.

"We are in the fight and the results will depend on the votes we get through the Internet and text messages,” he said, in statements to Andina.

He said they would obtain the first report, based on text messages, in the coming hours.

Vásquez said he hoped to meet with Prime Minister Salomon Lerner shortly, in order to coordinate and encourage the participation of all Peruvians.

He said voting booths had been installed in various areas of Iquitos, such as markets and city squares, so that residents and tourists could cast a vote for the Amazon.

He noted that four years ago, Loreto and representatives from other Amazon countries, such as Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, among others, had agreed to nominate and promote the Amazon as a new natural wonder.

There are 28 finalists left, from the initial 477 that were nominated.

Anyone can vote by visiting http://www.new7wonders.com/

Voting ends this Friday at 07:00 a.m local time.

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