On December 4, 2024, the Foreign Ministers of China and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect for fundamental interests, as a foundation for strengthening bilateral relations. This meeting took place in Beijing during Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren's official visit to China.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the stability and continuity in both countries' domestic and foreign policies. He stated that the successful experiences and beneficial practices have ensured the healthy and stable development of bilateral relations, which should be further promoted.
The two nations are preparing to commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 20th anniversary of a free trade agreement in 2025. Wang noted that Chile was the first South American country to establish diplomatic relations with China and the first Latin American nation to sign a free trade agreement with China.
Wang expressed China's desire to position Chile as a model for high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative in Latin America, highlighting the importance of the relationship within the Asia-Pacific region.
Van Klaveren reiterated Chile's commitment to the 'One China' principle, which he described as a key pillar of Chile's foreign policy. He also expressed Chile's intention to enhance connectivity and attract Chinese investments, particularly in sectors such as connectivity, telecommunications, and clean energy.
Both ministers signed commercial protocols aimed at optimizing the export of fresh fruits and Chilean meats to China. These agreements, signed by Chile's Undersecretary of Agriculture Ignacia Fernández and China's Vice Minister of Customs Wang Lingjun, aim to improve transport times and enhance the quality of fruit, as well as increase protein supply for the Chinese market.
Van Klaveren's visit concludes on December 5, 2024, as he departs for Manila. This visit follows a meeting between Chilean President Gabriel Boric and Chinese President Xi Jinping in October 2023, where Xi recognized Chile as a pioneering country in various aspects of its relationship with China and a supporter of the Belt and Road Initiative.