Buenos Aires – Vietnam is actively seeking to strengthen its ties with the Antofagasta region in northern Chile, a significant hub for industry, scientific research, and education. Vietnamese Ambassador to Chile Nguyen Viet Cuong recently concluded a productive working visit to the region, signaling a mutual interest in fostering greater bilateral cooperation.

During his trip from March 19-22, Ambassador Cuong engaged in discussions with Antofagasta's Governor Ricardo Heriberto Díaz Cortés. The meetings provided a platform for both sides to share insights into their respective economic, cultural, educational, and tourism landscapes.

Governor Díaz highlighted Antofagasta's key strengths, most notably its robust mining sector. The region is home to some of the world's largest and most productive mines, including Chuquicamata, the largest open-pit copper mine globally, and Escondida, the copper mine with the highest production volume worldwide. Beyond copper, Antofagasta also boasts significant reserves of lithium and molybdenum. The Governor further emphasized the growing potential of tourism and renewable energy within the region.

In a move to formalize and deepen the burgeoning relationship, Governor Díaz proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Antofagasta and a suitable Vietnamese locality. This agreement would aim to actively promote cooperation across various sectors.

Ambassador Cuong expressed his enthusiasm for the proposal and pledged to work closely with the Antofagasta government to identify an appropriate partner locality in Vietnam for the MoU.

The Vietnamese delegation also engaged with the Antofagasta Industrial Association and representatives from local businesses. These discussions centered on exploring opportunities for increased trade and investment between Vietnam and Antofagasta, with particular attention paid to the mining and renewable energy sectors, as well as the import-export of goods. Both parties committed to maintaining open communication, organizing future meetings, and collaborating to advance economic ties.

Antofagasta's prominence extends beyond its mining prowess. The region is a global center for astronomical research, housing world-renowned facilities such as the Paranal Observatory, home to the Very Large Telescope, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). It also boasts prestigious educational institutions like the University of Antofagasta and the Catholic University of the North, making it a significant center for scientific and technological development.

This initiative to strengthen cooperation with Antofagasta reflects Vietnam's broader strategy of expanding its international partnerships and exploring new avenues for economic growth and knowledge exchange. The potential MoU signifies a commitment from both sides to leverage their respective strengths for mutual benefit.

Potential Supplementary Information (Could be added depending on available data):

Specific Vietnamese localities with potential synergies with Antofagasta. (e.g., regions with mining industries, developing renewable energy sectors, or strong educational/research institutions).
Existing trade volumes or types of goods traded between Vietnam and Chile.
Details about potential areas of collaboration in scientific research or education.
Information about any existing partnerships or exchanges between Vietnamese and Chilean institutions.
Quotes from Ambassador Cuong or Governor Díaz elaborating on the potential benefits of the cooperation.