The government of President José Raúl Mulino congratulated this Sunday José Antonio Kast, the newly elected president of Chile, and wished him success in achieving his goals for the well-being of his people. In an official statement, Panama's Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted not only the result but also the manner in which the Chilean people came out to vote. "An exemplary civic and democratic behavior," Panama described the electoral day, emphasizing the institutional strength of Chile and its citizens' commitment to democracy. The message also makes it clear that Panama expects the new Chilean government "to achieve the objectives set for the well-being, stability, and development of the Chilean people," while reiterating its intention to continue strengthening the historical bonds of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between the two countries. Kast won the presidential runoff by a wide margin, defeating former Labor Minister Jeannette Jara from Chile's ruling party. From Panama, the message was short, diplomatic, and direct: respect for the result and hope for stability for the Chilean people. With over 99% of the votes counted, Chile's Electoral Service confirmed a victory of 58.18% to 41.82% for his opponent. At 59 years old, the former deputy becomes the first president openly identified with Pinochetism since Chile's return to democracy. During the campaign, Kast defended hardline positions on security and migration, promising a firm hand against organized crime, the massive expulsion of irregular migrants, and the construction of maximum-security prisons for drug trafficking leaders. Today, with the vote counted and the country divided but expectant, Chile begins a new political stage.
