Life is tough - and you have to be tougher than life to change the world.

I grew up middle class. My father was a public functionary who didn't leave an inheritance, just debts.

On one hand, it is very important that democracy and human rights be defended across borders. But it is also very important to respect the right of each country to choose its own path.

I'm a person with a lot of affection for adventure - I scuba dive, skydive, fly helicopters.

Chile isn't the biggest, richest or most powerful country in the world, but we should dedicate ourselves to transforming it into the best country in the world. We don't have a single minute to lose.

I believe in a real democratic system, with a state of law and freedom of the press. I believe in a free, open-market economy integrated with the world. And I believe in equality of opportunity. Those are my basic beliefs. On top of that, of course, I believe in some moral values.

Business is a useful tool in politics, but it's not enough. You need much more than to be a good businessman, to be a good politician.