Ambassador to Mexico performs honor guard in wake to Lucho Gatica

The Ambassador of Chile in Mexico, Domingo Arteaga, along with officials of the Chilean Mission and the Consul General of Chile in Mexico City, José Jaliliye, attended on Tuesday night the wake of the singer, which is being held in French Pantheon in San Joaquin.

The diplomats accompanied the musician's children, forming part of the honor guard that accompanied the renowned Chilean artist. Former Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, Lucho Gatica's father-in-law, also participated in the honor guard.

Today at 13.00 hrs from Mexico City (16.00 hrs from Chile) there will be a service in honor of the national singer. The Government of Chile, meanwhile, decreed national mourning for tomorrow.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Roberto Ampuero, expressed his condolences for the death of Lucho Gatica. The prominent Chilean boleroist died at the age of 90 in Mexico City, where he had been living for several years. The Secretary of State stated that he was "a tremendous artist who made Chile's name shine all over the world". In addition, he added that "it was an honor to have met him while I was ambassador to Mexico".