Subsecretary of Economy Karlfranz Koehler attended the first Cabinet Council held at La Moneda Palace, where President José Antonio Kast Rist met with his ministers to discuss key measures and actions for advancing the government’s program and addressing urgent needs in Chile, according to a March 13 statement.
The meeting focused on reviewing recent government announcements and exploring ways to boost national development. President Kast opened the session by expressing appreciation for the work already accomplished by his cabinet. “Very, very good morning. What a pleasure to see you all. The press will enter shortly to take some images of this first Cabinet Council, of which I am very proud of everything you have done. Not only in these two days, because you have all been working for many weeks now,” Kast said.
He highlighted the intense pace and professionalism shown by his team since taking office, noting that citizens already recognize many ministers due to their clear public statements. Kast also reflected on a recent visit with several ministers to Liceo Augusto D’Halmar, where he was impressed by students’ focus on work, loyalty, and happiness as guiding principles for community life.
Kast addressed challenges facing the country, including a recent attack on a police officer in Puerto Varas. He thanked the Minister of Security for her immediate response: “We do not lead the investigation, but yes, Minister, thank you for that immediate response.” He emphasized that despite any difficulties inherited from previous administrations or resource constraints, there are no excuses for failing to meet citizens’ expectations.
The president called on all officials to embrace transparency through audits and encouraged collaboration across society: “If we continue insisting that moving Chile forward is everyone’s duty, each person will help from even the simplest tasks.” He concluded by urging ministers to engage directly with staff in their ministries and value every role that contributes to government operations.
