Andina

Chile's ex-President Piñera says optimism is in Peru's air

PARACAS,PERÚ-DICIEMBRE 01.Presidente Pedro Pablo Kuczynski saluda a Sebastián Piñera por su cumpleaños en CADE 2016.Foto: ANDINA/Oscar Farje Gomero.

09:59 | Paracas, Dec. 2.

Chile’s former President Sebastian Piñera affirmed Peru has led Latin America’s growth in recent times and called for perseverance and the addressing of several challenges to continue on this path.

In his speech delivered at the Annual Conference of Executives (CADE) 2016, Piñera claimed President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski is quite clear about where to start and what the targets are when it comes to take over the reins of his country. 

He also noted Peruvian leader’s willingness to firmly take the helm of the Andean nation.

“A climate of optimism is perceived. The new administration is not intended to do more of the same, but seeks to make things change […],” he was quoted as saying in the presence of President Kuczynski and Prime Minister Fernando Zavala.

However, he said a good five-year term is not enough, but many governments wanting to maintain the momentum.

According to Piñera, Peru's priorities should be focused on improving quality education and social inclusion.

He also finds it vital to demonstrate a railway-oriented commitment to building a fair, poverty-free and equal opportunity society. 

“Innovation and business venture capacity should be encouraged not suffocated […],” he continued.

He addressed CADE's audience and encouraged them to be attentive to technological revolution, improve quality of democracy and combat corruption.

The former president claimed challenges are significant, and Peru is well aware the path is not that easy. 

“Firm and decisive steps must be taken towards building a free, just and more developed nation,” he pointed out. 

He went on to highlight the regional trade bloc known as the Pacific Alliance — formed by Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru— and shared his position against protectionism.

Furthermore, Piñera received a touching greeting by President Kuczynski and CADE participants on the occasion of his birthday.  

Mr. Piñera’s presentation “Development Opportunity, a Business Vision,” took place on Thursday at 19:00 (local time) in the Paracas beach area a few hours away from the Peruvian capital city.

(END) JCB/SMA/RMB

Published: 12/2/2016