W/S President Pinera being greeted by band SOT President Sebastian Pinera (speaking Spanish): "I have asked the minister of health to personally take care of Belen's health. Today she is 14 weeks pregnant. And yesterday she surprised all of us with words that were deep and showed how mature she was, when she said that despite the pain the man who raped her had caused her, she is going to love and to care for her baby" M/S Girl playing with doll SOT Pinera (speaking Spanish): "When Belen reaches 22 weeks pregnant, that is, in 8 weeks time, if it is necessary to have a premature birth, that surgery will have to be carried out. Because in our country the life of the mother always comes first, and we will know how to protect Belen's life with all the instruments that medical science provides for us, and with all the attention and care the public health system is giving to her." M/S President Pinera being escorted SCRIPT Chile: Abortion controversy as President praises infant in abuse case A fifth grade 11 year old Chilean girl is at the centre of a debate around abortion, following her systematic rape by her mother's partner. The young girl was repeatedly abused over the course of two years but has decided to give birth to the child, despite it coming from "the man who hurt her". The young girl has expressed when interviewed that she would like to give birth to the the child, as it would be "like having a doll in her arms". Medical experts have weighed into the debate, stating that the 11-year-old is too young to give birth and may experience serious health problems as a result. Psychologists have also entered the debate, stating that even if physical health is not an issue, emotional and psychological issues could result. Chile outlaws abortion in all cases and critics of the legislation site this example as to why the law must be changed. The law dates back to the rein of Augusto Pinochet, a divisive military leader. The current Chilean President, Sebastian Pinera, has praised the decision of the victim, stating: "she surprised all of us with words that were deep and showed how mature she was, when she said that despite the pain the man who raped her had caused her, she is going to love and to care for her baby." He went on to say that if a procedure is required for premature birth, that will be provided as "the life of the mother always comes first." The main opposition figure to Pinera and previous President, Veronica Michelle Bachelet, has sided with opposition, stating that in cases of rape abortion should be allowed. Chile is one of seven Latin American Countries with a universal ban on abortion.

• published: 29 Apr 2014
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