Chilean President Michelle Bachelet Thursday hailed the nation's achievements in 2009 and expressed confidence for the future in her New Year message to the nation.

During the year 2009, Chile has proved the strength and efficiency of its development model, Bachelet said.

She thanked the Chilean people for their support. She enjoyed the highest approval rate of 80 percent among former Chilean presidents in a latest poll. Bachelet added that she was honored to serve her homeland.

"I am grateful for so much support and affection the entire country has shown and given me everyday," said Bachelet, who is to finish her term on March 11.

Bachelet said her government had focused its efforts on "Chile becoming a better country with much humanity."

As the first female president in the history of the country, her main concern has been that Chilean women "be higher valued in our society."

"Everyone has more rights. The social protection system is now a concrete reality. We successfully confronted the biggest crisis since the last 60 years without expense of people," Bachelet remarked.

"Today's Chile is not a result of luck but a fruit of the continuity and consistence of our public policies," she added.

According to Bachelet, the economy would recover in 2010, with an officially expected economic growth rate between 4.5 to 5.5 percent, while it was 1.8 percent in 2009.

"Chile, a vigorous country, has shown its strength to surpass adversity," Bachelet said.