The president-elect of Chile, José Antonio Kast, emphasized this Saturday in Santiago de los Caballeros the notable advances of RD in tourism and migration, along with the solid development, economic growth, and security levels that the Dominican Republic exhibits. Kast, who has visited the country on multiple occasions for 35 years, expressed his admiration for the constant progress he observes in all areas.
Progress that surprises after decades
During his stay, Kast underscored how advances of RD in tourism and migration represent a model to follow. He recalled that three and a half decades ago, he knew a nation in transformation, and today its development, economic growth, and security levels continue to impress. In 2025, the Dominican Republic received over 10 million tourists, a record driven by investments in hotel infrastructure and airports, according to data from the World Bank and the local Ministry of Tourism. This boom positions the country as the Caribbean leader in the sector.
Exemplary migration policies in the island
Lessons for Chile from Dominican experience
Kast highlighted that advances of RD in tourism and migration include a relevant and exemplary migration policy, adapted to the complex shared reality with Haiti on the island of La Española. Despite marked social, economic, and structural differences, the Dominican Republic has implemented strict border controls and regularization programs, reducing irregular flows by 25% in the last two years, according to reports from the OAS and the Dominican government. For Chile, these successful experiences in strategic areas such as tourism and infrastructure offer key learnings.
Regional tour focused on cooperation and security
The visit is part of a tour of Central America and the Caribbean, focused on meetings and activities related to regional cooperation, security, and migration. Kast seeks firsthand the factors behind the Dominican success to apply them in Chile, where migration and tourism challenges demand innovative solutions. Experts like the director of the UASD Migration Observatory agree that the Dominican approach balances sovereignty and humanitarianism.
- Economic development: Annual GDP growth above 5% in the last decade.
- Tourism: Investment in 20 new hotel projects for 2026.
- Migration: Ordered deportations and bilateral agreements with Haiti.
These advances of RD in tourism and migration reinforce the position of the Dominican Republic as a regional reference, attracting international attention in a context of shared challenges.
