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The Valparaiso Basque club welcomed an official Basque Government visit, led by Secretary General of Foreign Action, Marian Elorza, and the Delegate of Euskadi in Chile, Rafael Kutz.  The visitors appreciated the work of the institution about to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first Basque association in this city seat of the National Parlament of Chile.  Zorionak!

Viña del Mar, Chile.   The Basque Government’s Secretary General of Foreign Action, Maria Angeles Elorza visited the Valparaiso Basque club last week accompanied by the Director of Foreign Relations, Leire Madariaga and by the Delegate of Euskadi in Chile, Rafael Kutz.

The Basque delegation was welcomed by members of the “Board of Directors and by representatives of the women and youth of the club.”  During the visit, lasting an hour and a half, the hosts showed the club facilities as well as reported on club activities that take place there.  One of the main themes was the upcoming centennial celebration of the first Basque association in Viña-Valparaiso, a proud moment for members of the local Basque community.

Marian Elorza appreciated the work carried out by the Valparaiso Basque club highlighting the participation of youth and adults alike in the development of the organization.  “The mix of the tradition has maintained this Basque club and the incorporation of youth guarantees its future and is fundamental in this centennial that this institution will celebrate this year,” she said.  The visit produced a very cordial climate.  “We crossed the ocean, however, we feel like we are at home,” Elorza added.

The visit to Chile by the Secretary General of Foreign Action, Marian Elorza, and that of the Director of Foreign Relations, Leire Madariaga took place as part of the investiture of Patricio Walker as the new president of Chile’s Senate, a ceremony they attended as special guests, along with the Delegate of Euskadi Rafael Kutz.