ChileTourism

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Republic of Chile was the first South American country to establish diplomatic relations with China, which took place on December 15, 1970. Bilateral relations have been developing smoothly ever since with a frequent exchange of high-level visits. A political consultation mechanism between the foreign ministries of two countries was established in 1988 and to date 10 rounds of consultations have been conducted. The two countries have signed a number of governmental agreements on trade, science and technology, culture, mutual visa exemption for diplomatic and service passports and investment protection. The two sides have conducted consultations in international affairs and enjoyed satisfactory cooperation in international organizations and conferences. In 1999, Chile was the first among Latin American countries to reach a bilateral agreement with China on China's entry to WTO. In 2002, China supported Chile running for non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2003-2004. Three cities or province-state relations of friendship have been established between the two countries.

In April 2001 President Jiang Zemin paid the first state visit to Chile. In October of the same year President Lagos paid an official visit to China after attending APEC Summit in Shanghai. The two leaders reached common understanding on establishing in the new century an all-round cooperation partnership characterized by long-term stability, equality and mutual benefit. Other important visits to Chile by Chinese leaders: State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wu Xueqian (1987), President Yang Shangkun (1990), State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qian Qichen (1993), Chairman Li Ruihuan of the CPPCC National Committee (1995), Vice-Premier Zhu Rongji (1996), Premier Li Peng (1996), Vice-Premier Li Lanqing (1997), Vice-Chairman Tian Jiyun of NPC Standing Committee (1998), Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan (2000), Vice-Chairman Cheng Siwei of NPC Standing Committee (2001).

Other important visits to China by Chilean leaders: Chilean Foreign Minister Clodomiro Almeida Medina (1973), Foreign Minister Hernan Cubillos (1978), Foreign Minister Jaime Del Valle Alliende (1984), President Jose Antonio Viera-Callo of the Chamber of Deputies (1991), Senate President Miguel Odero (1995), President Paricio Aylwin Azocar (1992), President Patricio Eduardo Frei Luis-Tagle (1995), Senate President Sergio Diez Urzua (1996), and Foreign Minister Jose Miguel Insulza Salinas (1997, 1998, 1999), President of the Chamber of Deputies Matinres (1999), Foreign Minister Soleda (2000), Senate President Senate Zaldivar (2001) and Procurator General Piedrabuena (2002).

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