Santo Domingo – In a significant diplomatic engagement, Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader embarked on an official visit to Chile to witness the presidential inauguration of José Antonio Kast, who will govern the South American nation from 2026 through 2030. The ceremonial transfer of power occurred at Chile’s National Congress building in Valparaíso, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape.
Following his arrival, President Abinader joined fellow international dignitaries for a formal reception with outgoing President Gabriel Boric at La Moneda Palace in Santiago. The Dominican delegation featured First Lady Raquel Arbaje, their daughter Adriana Abinader Arbaje, and Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, demonstrating the importance both nations place on bilateral relations.
The day’s proceedings included the official swearing-in ceremony of President Kast and his newly appointed cabinet members, followed by an exclusive luncheon hosted by the incoming president and First Lady María Pía Adriasola for visiting world leaders. The event gathered prominent figures from across the globe, including Argentina’s Javier Milei, Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Ecuador’s Daniel Noboa, and Spain’s King Felipe VI, highlighting the international significance of Chile’s democratic transition.
President Abinader’s participation underscores the Dominican Republic’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with Latin American partners and observing democratic processes throughout the region. The visit concluded with the Dominican leader’s scheduled return to Santo Domingo following the completion of all official ceremonies.