At a news conference just minutes after the final man was hoisted up, Mr Pinera thanked the miners for showing "companionship, solidarity, teamwork and unshakable faith".
He said those values and sentiments would "stay engraved in the deepest parts of our hearts".
"They have given us an example of nobility and greatness that I hope will inspire us.
"When I saw them emerge they were so happy because they were experiencing a kind of rebirth, and this country is more united and stronger than before."
Shift foreman Luis Urzua, 54, was the last miner to reach the surface, the climax of a rescue mission which has gripped the world.
After being embraced by the president, Mr Urzua told told him: "I hand over my shift - I hope this never happens again.
"To our rescuers, to all of Chile and all of the people, I am proud of living in this country."
Mr Pinera replied: "I receive your shift and you have done your duty, coming out last as a good captain will always do.
"I feel proud of each and every one of the 33 miners because they have given an example of courage and loyalty."
Mr Pinera told reporters that as a result of the event, Chile was a "more respected" country.
"People now know more about this small country. It's a country that is able to fight against adversity - to unite with strength, faith and hope.
"I'm very proud to have the privelege and responsibility to be the president of Chile in a year of adversity."
Mr Pinera went on to say the rescue effort was an "inspiring experience" for Chile as well as the world, adding: "We did it in the Chilean way, we did it well."
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