Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador are showing a display of solidarity with Chile in the aftermath of the February 27 earthquake. On Tuesday, Bolivian President Evo Morales said he would donate half of his salary to aid Chile, and called for a five-day campaign in Bolivia to raise funds for earthquake relief in Haiti as well as in Chile. Peruvian President Alan García arrived in Chile with Peruvian Health Minister Óscar Ugarte Ubilluz and 21 doctors, who will establish a field hospital in Concepción. In addition, the government of Argentina announced plans to increase the amount of gas it exports to Chile by a multiple of six, and Ecuador, which is not known for being a political ally to Chile, has already sent nine tons of supplies.
The region is not always so harmonious. There are historical conflicts, including Bolivia’s demand for access to the Pacific coast, and more recent disputes, like the one between Peru and Chile over their sea border and Chile’s clash with Argentina over gas exports.
While many issues remain unresolved, the support provided is a clear sign of putting aside political differences in times of crisis.
