Paraguayan President Santiago Pena was rushed to the Samaritano Hospital in Rio de Janeiro on Monday after feeling unwell during the G20 summit, where he was participating as an invited guest.
The 46-year-old leader reportedly experienced discomfort that necessitated medical attention. In an official statement, Paraguayan authorities confirmed his condition, stating, “We inform that the President of the Republic, Santiago Pena, was treated today at the Samaritano Hospital (Botafogo) in Rio de Janeiro due to an indisposition.”
The hospital released a medical bulletin explaining the situation: “The head of state had a malaise in the afternoon and was taken to a health center for diagnostic tests. His condition is stable, and he is doing well.”
Eyewitnesses at the summit venue reported seeing President Pena being taken away by ambulance. Some media outlets speculated that he may have experienced chest pains, though no official confirmation has been made.
Paraguay’s Vice President, Pedro Alliana, provided additional updates on Pena’s condition. “I spoke with President Pena, who is in Rio de Janeiro’s Samaritano Hospital after a slight illness. He is doing well and awaiting the results of medical tests,” Alliana reassured the public.
President Pena was attending the G20 summit at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the host of this year’s event. Although Paraguay is not a G20 member, Pena was present to discuss issues including Paraguay’s economic progress and efforts to reduce poverty.
Before his health episode, Pena addressed summit participants, highlighting Paraguay’s recent strides in economic stability and poverty reduction. His sudden illness temporarily overshadowed the summit discussions but was met with prompt medical care and positive updates about his recovery.
