Armenia |
Chile |
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Diplomatic relations exist between Armenia and Chile. There are over 600 Armenians and descendants residing in Chile today.[1] Both nations are members of the United Nations.
During and soon after the Armenian genocide; many Armenians boarded ships for "America" not knowing that the ships were heading to South America. The first Armenians to arrive to Chile settled in the town of Llay-Llay, close to the port of Valparaíso.[2] In the 1940s, the Chilean government encouraged immigration to the country, and as a result, more Armenians arrived and settled in Chile.[2] On 26 December 1991, Armenia regained its independence after the Dissolution of the Soviet Union. On 15 April 1993, Armenia and Chile established diplomatic relations.[3]
In 2007, the Chilean government recognized the Armenian Genocide.[4] In 2010, Armenia appointed an honorary consul in Santiago.[3] In July 2014, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan paid an official visit to Chile.[4] During the visit, President Sargsyan met with Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and both leaders discussed a wide range of issues with regard to strengthening the Armenian-Chilean bilateral relations and making joint efforts at promoting cooperation in a number of promising areas. Both leaders signed a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding on Cooperation between both nations Ministry's of Foreign Affairs.[4] In 2016, Chile appointed a resident honorary consul in Yerevan.[3]
In April 2018, both nations celebrated 25 years of diplomatic relations.[5] That same year, both nations abolished visas for holders of diplomatic and official passports between Armenia and Chile.[6]
In 2018, trade between Armenia and Chile totaled US$1.9 million.[3] Armenia's main export to Chile is iron ore. Chile's main exports to Armenia include fish and alcoholic beverages (wine).