Italy’s president visits Chile, highlights democracy, cooperation

BOGOTA

Italian President Sergio Mattarella paid an official visit to his Chilean counterpart Gabriel Boric on Tuesday.

Mattarella was warmly welcomed by Boric with a ceremony at La Moneda Palace in the capital, Santiago.

During their meeting, the two leaders engaged in discussions covering various topics including EU-Latin America relations, energy transition, climate change and economic cooperation between their two countries.

In a press conference, Mattarella expressed his pleasure to be in Chile and highlighted the historical connection between the two nations.

"Democracy has grown stronger in Chile, and that creates a common bond between Chile and Italy," said the Italian president.

Mattarella also underscored the significance of the dialogue between Latin America and the EU for global balance and cooperation.

The visit resulted in the signing of two memorandums of understanding on "development and diplomatic exchanges" between the two countries.

Mattarella was accompanied by Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto Van Klaveren and Chilean Defense Minister Maya Fernandez.

Following his visit to Chile, Mattarella is scheduled to travel to Paraguay on Thursday, where he will meet with President Mario Abdo Benitez.

*Writing by Servet Gunerigok