Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña was hospitalized late Monday after feeling unwell during his attendance at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, officials confirmed.
According to Paraguayan authorities, President Peña, 46, experienced a health issue and was treated at Samaritano Hospital in Botafogo. A subsequent medical update from the hospital stated that Peña had experienced a “malaise” in the afternoon and was taken for diagnostic tests. The hospital assured the public that Peña is in stable condition and recovering well.
Eyewitnesses reported that Peña was transported by ambulance from the summit venue, with some media outlets speculating that he had suffered chest pains. Paraguay’s Vice President, Pedro Alliana, reassured the public via social media, saying, “I spoke with President Peña, who is currently in the hospital after a mild illness. He is in good spirits and awaiting the results of his medical tests.”
Although Paraguay is not part of the G20, President Peña was invited by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the host of the summit. Prior to his illness, Peña had been discussing Paraguay’s economic situation, including efforts to reduce poverty, with fellow world leaders.
