France: Chilean President Pinera Meets President Sarkozy

Chilean President Sebastian Pinera offered his support to French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Wednesday.

Sarkozy faces a wave of massive protests over unpopular pension reforms.

Pinera said Sarkozy would need to listen to the protesters, but that at the end of the day a true leader should be guided by his own opinion.

[Sebastian Pinera, Chilean President]:

„He is facing a difficult situation, a possible reform that led to many protests. But I saw him with the conviction and the strength needed from leaders. When things heat up leaders need to show new directions and open up new paths.“

Pinera also said that he would introduce new laws in Chile to tighten up safety in the work place – even if it means extra costs for mine owners.

[Sebastian Pinera, Chilean President]:

“During the last months we reviewed our laws, rules, methods, standards. We did compare them with those of the most developed countries in the world. We reviewed our capacity to finance those reforms and we came to some conclusions, and I can guarantee that even if I cannot guarantee that accidents will never again happen in our country, I can assure you that a mine like the one in San Jose will not operate with the same conditions as when the accident took place.“

Pinera, a conservative billionaire businessman, oversaw the 23-hour rescue operation of 33 miners, who were hoisted 1 by 1 to the surface after more than 2 months underground.

The Chilean president also met with British Prime Minister David Cameron in London on Monday, and will meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Friday.

Foto: NTDTV