The curator, who succeeded Michelle Bachelet, was 74 years old. He led Chile for two mandates, between 2010 and 2014, then between 2018 and 2022.
Former Chilean President Sebastian Piñera died Tuesday (February 6) in a helicopter crash in Lago Ranco, a resort 920 kilometers south of the capital Santiago, his office announced.
“It is with deep regret that we announce the death of the former President of the Republic of Chile, Sebastian Piñera Echeñique”at the age of 74, deplores the press release.
Three other people who were aboard the helicopter survived the crash, authorities said. When his death was announced, Chilean MPs observed a minute of silence in tribute to him.
A seasoned businessman, Sebastian Piñera led Chile from 2010 to 2014, then from 2018 to 2022. During his first mandate, the country experienced rapid economic growth and a sharp decline in unemployment, even though many The country’s neighbors and trading partners were experiencing a slowdown in their economic dynamism.
His second term, however, was marked by violent demonstrations against social inequalities. In response, the government began the process of drafting a new Constitution to replace the one adopted in the 1970s under the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet.
“He will receive all the Republican honors and recognition he deserves”declared Interior Minister Carolina Tohá, from the government of left-wing President Gabriel Boric, when the death was announced.
Sebastian Piñera often traveled in his own helicopter. He was a former shareholder in the country’s national airline, with stakes in a television network and other businesses.