The Bolivian businessman Marcelo Claure inaugurated the Bolivia360 Day event at Harvard University on Friday. Several of the main presidential candidates attended the event. The initiative aims to gather proposals to structurally transform the country.
In his opening speech, Claure warned that Bolivia faces a crossroads with no time to lose. He assured that the country needs a “hope with direction,” built with facts and commitment.
The businessman proposed three urgent objectives: opposition unity, a credible economic plan, and clean elections. He emphasized that electoral fragmentation is the guarantee of a new defeat against MAS. Therefore, he committed to supporting the strongest opposition candidate with all his resources.
Claure called to put egos aside and think about the country. His proposal was backed by survey data showing that 70% of Bolivians support a single candidate.
Among the attendees were Samuel Doria Medina, Eva Copa, Manfred Reyes Villa, and Juan Pablo Velasco. They all traveled to Boston with expenses covered by the organization.
The mayor of El Alto requested leave to attend and emphasized that the invitation was from the Claure Group. Reyes Villa and José Luis Lupo were among the speakers. Analysts like Gonzalo Chávez also participated, discussing the country's macroeconomics.
A new vision for the country
During his presentation, Claure explained that Bolivia360 is a platform without partisan colors. “It has only one color: the color of the flag we all carry in our hearts,” he said. He pointed out that the purpose is for our children to grow up in a country that doesn't have to justify itself.
He also stated that it is not just another academic meeting, but the beginning of a national movement. He highlighted that the project is fueled by the experience of the Harvard Growth Lab.
Economically, Bolivia360 proposes structural reforms in key sectors. Lithium, mining, sustainable agribusiness, tourism, and digitalization are part of the plan.
Claure indicated that the current economic model is exhausted. He suggested reducing the fiscal deficit and ensuring the independence of the Central Bank. The goal is to recover the state's solvency and attract foreign investment.
Changes in health, education, and youth leadership are also proposed. Claure announced a political training institute and courses with Harvard. More than 2,400 Bolivian students are already participating in these initiatives.
The goal is to reach 20,000 young people in the coming years. Additionally, there is an aim to promote an investment fund for entrepreneurs.
