New consul in Chile assumes office with agenda focused on energy, trade, and security

Economist Flavio Escóbar Llanos is set to assume the position of Bolivia's Consul General in Chile, marking a period of renewed engagement between La Paz and Santiago. His tenure will prioritize strengthening bilateral cooperation across several key areas, including energy, foreign trade, port logistics, and a growing focus on combating transnational crime.

Escóbar's appointment was officially announced on July 31 by President Rodrigo Paz. This marks the third high-profile diplomatic appointment under Paz's administration, following nominations to the Organization of American States (OAS) and as ambassador to Paraguay. The role in Chile is particularly significant given the historical complexities of relations between the two nations, but also reflects a recent pragmatic shift towards greater bilateral integration.

Born in Potosí, Escóbar is a graduate of the Universidad Católica Boliviana and brings extensive experience from both academia and the private sector. He previously served as regional rector for UCB and held executive positions in major Bolivian companies such as Soboce, Banco Nacional de Bolivia, and Cervecería Boliviana Nacional. He is also a member of the Bolivian Academy of Economic Sciences and has prior government experience, including a stint as undersecretary of Socioeconomic Development.

His background directly aligns with the new diplomatic focus, as he was also a member of the Bolivian chapter of the Chile-Bolivia Binational Business Council. Key immediate tasks for Escóbar will include supporting the reversion of the Sica Sica-Arica oil pipeline, which aims to facilitate fuel imports from Chile and reduce logistical costs for Bolivia. He will also be involved in the expansion of the Arica Terminal and strengthening trade corridors to the ports of Antofagasta and Mejillones, crucial for Bolivia's mining and agricultural exports.

Furthermore, Escóbar's agenda includes updating the Economic Complementarity Agreement 22 (ACE-22), focusing on trade facilitation, digitalization, administrative simplification, and enhancing the exchange of goods and services. Chilean Consul in Bolivia, Roberto Ruiz Piracés, indicated that Chile is keen to offer improved services to Bolivian foreign trade.

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The project is in the permit phase, and Bolivia is preparing the documentation to request the corresponding authorizations for the pumping stations.