FIFTH MEETING OF THE POLITICAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE OF THE MEXICO-CHILE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT 

In preparation for the official visit of President Felipe Calderon to Chile on June 7, the fifth meeting of the Political Affairs Committee of the Mexico-Chile Strategic Partnership Agreement was held today in Santiago. 

At the meeting, diplomats from both countries discussed the progress made by the bilateral strategic partnership that began in 2006, stressing that it is based on the rule of law, democracy and full respect of human rights, fundamental freedoms, promoting development and open economies. 

The delegations emphasized the importance of cooperation to strengthen the Inter-American human rights system and the democratic institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean, and they reviewed cooperation programs for security and fighting transnational organized crime. 

They also discussed the progress made by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), confirming the commitment of both countries to continue working on strengthening the community.

At the regional level, they applauded the progress made by the Pacific Alliance prior to its fourth summit, which will be held in Paranal, Antofagasta, Chile on June 6-7 with the attendance of the presidents of Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Peru.

Today’s meeting was chaired by Ambassador Norma Pensado, interim head of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs at the Foreign Ministry, and Ambassador Fernando Schmidt Ariztía, Chilean Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs.