Ricky Martin's campaign for gay rights

Ricky Martin wants same-sex marriage recognised in Chile.

Ricky Martin, who came out in 2010, has urged Chile to support same-sex marriage.

The Puerto Rican singer delivered his remarks at a meeting held at Santiago International Airport just minutes before leaving Chile after three concerts here, the Iguales Foundation said in a statement.

"I want equal marriage rights for Chile," Ricky Martin said.

Saturday's meeting, according to the foundation, "was designed to give the artist an idea about the realities of sexual diversity in Chile, the progress made in legislation and cultural matters, and the challenges still pending, particularly the need for a marriage law with equal rights for all.

"Ricky Martin is a celebrity of global renown, which allows us to reach a far more massive audience with his message of equality and non-discrimination," said Luis Larrain, executive president of the Iguales Foundation.

"We hope his testimony as a gay father helps eliminate the prejudices of those who still have them, and that the government realises it shouldn't keep putting off same-sex marriage that includes parenthood.

"According to the foundation, Martin spoke about his sons Matteo and Valentino and how important it is for them to grow up in a world where "there are no second-class citizens."

Martin was in Chile as part of his One World Tour, which has been travelling around the world since last April.He appeared before a full house at Ester Roa Stadium in Chile's southern city of Concepcion and twice at Santiago's Movistar Arena in support of his latest album A Quien Quiera Escuchar.

- AAP