THE Communist Party of Chile’s new general secretary said on Sunday that she was looking forward to the challenges of the job during the difficult times facing her country.

Barbara Figueroa was speaking after being elected by the central committee to take over from Lautaro Carmona, who has become the party’s new president.

Mr Carmona has replaced Guillermo Teillier, who led the organisation for 18 years until his death on August 29.

In an interview with Prensa Latina, Ms Figueroa said she was very proud to become the new party leader, adding that the role brings with it a lot of responsibilities because of the challenges currently facing Chile.

“It means a lot to be part of a process of collective debate” on these challenges, she said.

The party is considering the current political situation in Chile and how best to strengthen its leadership to tackle the situation. 

Ms Figueroa resigned as Chilean ambassador to Argentina to take up her new role.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs thanked her for her work and wished her success in her new role.