Secretary Kerry and President Pinera Talk

Secretary Kerry and President Pinera Elevate Bilateral Engagement

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC

June 4, 2013

Secretary Kerry and President of Chile Sebastian Pinera met June 3 to discuss issues of mutual interest including the promotion of economic growth and development through trade; collaboration on energy and renewable energy projects; increased cooperation in science, technology, and the environment; the importance of travel and tourism to our economies; and access to quality education as a means of social development.

Secretary Kerry and President Pinera agreed to create a new High Level Bilateral Political Consultative Mechanism, with the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs representing the United States. This mechanism will be the premier forum for political dialogue between our countries. They also agreed to revitalize the U.S.-Chile Bilateral Policy Planning Dialogue, with the Department of State Director of Policy Planning representing the United States. These engagements demonstrate the breadth and depth of the U.S.-Chile relationship and our shared commitment to advancing economic growth and opportunity, transparency, human rights, and the rule of law.

The U.S. Government supports the inclusion of Chile for participation in the Visa Waiver Program once all outstanding requirements have been met.

The United States welcomes the opportunity for increased engagement with Chile and looks forward to continued close cooperation to increase economic prosperity and the welfare of the people in our countries, the Western Hemisphere, and globally.

ENDS

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