José Antonio Kast debuts at the UN General Assembly with a focus on security and trade
The President of Chile, José Antonio Kast, has begun his trip to New York to participate in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. This event marks his first official address before the highest international forum as Head of State, an opportunity that the Chilean government will use to strengthen its presence in multilateral organizations and promote foreign trade.
Central axes of the Chilean agenda
The Chilean delegation, led by Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna, has defined an agenda focused on three fundamental pillars: the fight against organized crime, international cooperation, and Chile’s strategic positioning on the global stage. Kast’s speech, scheduled for Tuesday the 22nd, will have as its central theme the combat against transnational criminal networks.
Among the key objectives, the promotion of the “Santiago Commitment” stands out, an initiative launched by the president last May to foster collaboration between nations against crime. Likewise, work will be done on Valparaíso’s candidacy to host the Executive Secretariat of the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ).
Chile is willing to collaborate with all nations to overcome tragedies such as poverty and the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. Our country has re-inserted itself into the world with clear rules that allow for the growth and development of our homeland.
José Antonio Kast, President of ChileDiplomatic and commercial challenges
Kast’s debut at the UN occurs in a complex geopolitical context, marked by trade tension between the United States and China. Chile, which maintains China as its main trading partner, must balance its diplomatic relations while negotiating with the Donald Trump administration following the recent increase in tariffs on Chilean products.
Although a formal bilateral meeting with the U.S. president has not been scheduled, the Chilean leader will attend the official reception hosted by Trump and the First Lady, Melania Trump. Kast’s agenda also includes activities at the Council on Foreign Relations and high-level meetings arranged by Foreign Minister Pérez Mackenna, along with the Ministers of Social Development, María Jesús Wulf, and the Environment, Francisca Toledo.
Change of posture and internal context
This trip represents a significant shift for Kast, who in the past was critical of certain UN policies. Furthermore, his participation comes after the Government’s recent decision to withdraw support for the candidacy of former President Michelle Bachelet to preside over the international body, a move that has marked the country’s recent foreign policy.
