Boric remembers Piñera as a "democrat" who contributed to building great agreements for the good of the country

The president of Chile, Gabriel Boric, has paid tribute to former president Sebastián Piñera, who tragically passed away in a helicopter accident on Tuesday. Boric described Piñera as a “dedicated democrat” who played a significant role in forging important agreements for the benefit of the country. “From the very beginning, he displayed a genuine commitment to what he believed was best for Chile,” Boric stated in a national address.

Boric reminisced about one of Piñera’s memorable quotes from his second presidential term: “We are all Chile, and together we must dream it, envision it, and construct it.” The current president emphasized Piñera’s leadership in post-earthquake recovery efforts in 2010, his audacious rescue of the 33 trapped miners in the San José mine, and his recent management of the pandemic amidst global uncertainty.

Expressing his condolences, Boric personally conveyed his sympathy to Piñera’s daughters, family members, and close associates. He also extended “a heartfelt fraternal embrace” to Piñera’s wife, Cecilia Morel, and their children. Furthermore, Boric conveyed his condolences to all Chileans who are saddened by this news.

Boric disclosed that he has spoken with former Chilean presidents Eduardo Frei, Ricardo Lagos, and Michelle Bachelet, who are anticipated to attend the state funeral. He announced that Piñera will receive a state funeral to be held in the Hall of Honor of the Chilean Congress in Santiago on Thursday. As a mark of respect, three days of national mourning have been declared to honor the memory of the two-time elected president of Chile.

To organize the funeral, President Boric appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs Alberto van Klaveren as the head of the committee. During the somber ceremony, Boric is expected to deliver a eulogy commemorating Piñera’s life and legacy. Sebastián Piñera served as the president of Chile from 2010-2014 and 2018-2022.