Who is Ruben Iglesias from Bel Canto: A Novel and what is their importance?

Ruben Iglesias is the Vice President of the country, and Ruben's home is the setting for the entire book. When the terrorists take over, however, Ruben becomes a consciencious host, attending to everyone, both hostages and terrorists. As a result, the hostages appreciate him, but the terrorists continue to hate him because he represents the government they want to overthrow.

During his capture, Ruben comes to realize that he is quite good at domestic tasks. He also plays an integral role in negotations between the hostages, terrorists and the Red Cross negotiator Messner in the beginning. Towards the end, however, he sees that he is no more or less important than any other individual in the room.