Chilean Foreign Minister begins diplomatic tour of Asia amid regional maritime concerns

Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna is embarking on a diplomatic tour of China, Vietnam, and Japan to strengthen economic ties and explore new areas of cooperation. In China, the Minister will meet with high-level officials in Beijing and Shanghai to expand export sectors, including services, ahead of President José Antonio Kast’s planned visit to the APEC summit in November. The tour also includes visits to Vietnam to discuss renewable energy, mining, and technology, as well as Japan, Chile’s second-largest Asian trading partner.

Concurrently, Chilean Deputy Alejandro Riquelme has raised concerns with the Foreign Minister regarding recent incidents and legislative initiatives from Argentina. These issues involve the Magallanes Strait and potential maritime services between Punta Arenas and the Falkland/Malvinas Islands. Riquelme emphasized the need for Chile to maintain a clear position regarding its ports and sovereignty while managing diplomatic relations with Argentina and the United Kingdom.