Caracas, March 24, 2025 – Bolivian President Luis Arce today advocated for continental sovereignty in a speech demanding an end to the United States’ economic, commercial, and financial blockade against Cuba.

He further called for the return of the Malvinas Islands to Argentina and Puerto Rico’s independence during the commemoration of the 146th anniversary of the heroic Defense of Calama, reaffirming Bolivia’s inalienable right to regain sovereign access to the Pacific coast.

The commemorative events for Sea Day continue this Sunday, following their commencement with floral offerings at the monument of Eduardo Abaroa in the plaza bearing his name, located in the central Sopocachi district of La Paz.

The president oversaw the hoisting of the national tricolor flag and the lighting of the votive flame, delivered the presidential address, and witnessed the beginning of the civic-military parade.

In his speech on the Day of Maritime Reclamation, Arce highlighted progress in bilateral relations with Chile and reaffirmed that Bolivia remains committed to its constitutional demand for sovereign access to the Pacific Ocean as a national priority that cannot be renounced.

He noted that since 2021, under the framework of “Diplomacy of the Peoples for Life,” various strategies and a “positive agenda” have been pursued. While maintaining Bolivia’s rightful claim to maritime access, the initiative aimed to build bridges of dialogue with Chile to address multiple issues of mutual interest.

Regarding progress made, he cited key measures implemented to streamline Bolivian foreign trade and ensure the uninterrupted flow of people and goods, including 24/7 operations at the Tambo Quemado-Chungará-Pisiga and Colchane border crossings.

Another agreement outlines joint actions, such as the potential opening of border crossings at Hitos 41 and 60, as well as maintenance work at several border complexes.

A third agreement covers police cooperation, information exchange, and anti-smuggling efforts coordinated by Border Committees, fostering a more efficient, harmonious, and mutually beneficial border relationship.

Arce also mentioned the expansion of Bolivia’s fuel storage capacity at its facility in the Port of Arica, aimed at improving the import and distribution logistics of hydrocarbons.

Additionally, he announced ongoing coordination with Chilean authorities on the implementation of the OSSA-2 Reverse Project, a pipeline system extending from Arica to Santa Cruz, which is expected to reduce current logistics costs by approximately 35%.

Prensa Latina