SANTIAGO – Dominican President Luis Abinader convened a significant meeting with representatives of the Dominican community in Chile, underscoring the strengthened diplomatic relationship between the two nations under Chilean President José Antonio Kast. The engagement, which included First Lady Raquel Arbaje, occurred prior to President Abinader’s attendance at the presidential inauguration ceremony.
Addressing the assembled diaspora, President Abinader issued a compelling call for Dominicans residing in Chile to serve as exemplary citizens and actively integrate into the societal fabric of their host country. He specifically emphasized leveraging educational opportunities. A notable focus of the dialogue was on economic collaboration, with the President highlighting the vast potential for the Dominican grape industry to gain expertise from Chile’s world-renowned viticulture and wine production sector, thereby boosting agricultural development back home.
President Abinader offered assurances to the community, pledging that their concerns would receive the government’s full attention and affirming that no request from nationals abroad is considered insignificant.
Official statistics from the Dominican embassy reveal a community of approximately 23,000 Dominicans in Chile, constituting the fourth-largest overseas Dominican population. Ambassador Juan Cohen elaborated on the government’s dedicated strategy to address the needs of its overseas citizens and fortify connections with the global diaspora. In a move to deepen cultural ties, the embassy unveiled plans for a ‘Dominican Week in Chile’ this November, an event designed to foster greater cultural exchange and integration.
The gathering, which also featured diplomatic and consular officials, served as a platform to discuss ongoing initiatives aimed at reinforcing the bonds between the Dominican state and its overseas communities. Officials unanimously acknowledged the critical role the diaspora plays in driving national development and ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage across generations.