A friendly country:
Chileans revere relationships and their social behavior reflects their friendliness. The common greeting among friends and relatives is the abrazo, which consists of a hug and a handshake and sometimes embellished with a kiss on the right cheek for women. It is repeated when saying goodbye.
In many ways the Chilean culture is more European in style than Latin American, due to the preponderance of European immigrants in Chile. Despite the apparent diversity of the population, however, Chileans have remained relatively homogenous. Immigrants coming to this land have been assimilated into the culture without prejudice and have accepted the predominance of the Spanish language, and the strong influence of Roman Catholicism.
Chile has a well-trained work force with high productivity. Education is emphasized as a means to a better life, and the great majority of young people receive secondary education, many in technical and professional specialities. Chile has a large, well-educated middle class.
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