Kast praises respect amid political differences after Madrid Forum controversy

After a week of controversy surrounding the international far-right Madrid Forum in Santiago, Chilean President José Antonio Kast highlighted the value of respect across political and ideological divides.

“

Always beyond our legitimate political differences, I have found here a place of respect, a place where we can talk and dream of the Chile we all want, in a homeland and a republic.

Speaking at the Fraternitas de la República 2026 ceremony of Chile's Grand Lodge, Kast said the event had offered a space for conversation despite legitimate differences. “Always beyond our legitimate political differences, I have found here a place of respect, a place where we can talk and dream of the Chile we all want, in a homeland and a republic,” he said.

Addressing authorities and representatives from different parts of society, the president said Chileans needed to make a particular effort to protect the country's institutions. “If there is something we must strive for, it is to take care of our institutions,” Kast said.

“

If there is something we must strive for, it is to take care of our institutions.

He also emphasized shared national ties as a basis for coexistence. “And we are brothers, since we are children of the same homeland,” he said, referring to the possibility of maintaining common spaces despite political differences.

“

And we are brothers, since we are children of the same homeland.