California inks deals with Chile

DAVIS
June 12, 2008 1:58pm

The state of California and the nation of Chile on Thursday signed agreements that are focused on strengthening research and teaching collaborations in the areas of grape growing and winemaking, and crop genetics and breeding.

The agreements were signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Chilean President Michelle Bachelet in ceremonies at the University of California, Davis.

New, collaborative educational opportunities and a partnership focused on ecosystem conservation and water management are the goals of one agreement.

"I am deeply honored that President Bachelet's vision to build the future of Chile on strategic partnerships in research, development of human capital, and public/private partnerships will expand those historic relationships," says UC Davis Chancellor Larry Vanderhoef.

Also signed was a partnership agreement between the California State University system and the Technical University of Chile involving curriculum development, college preparation and remediation strategies.

“The Memorandums of Understanding signed today solidify the already strong relationship between our state and Chile,” says Mr. Schwarzenegger. “These new agreements will strengthen our ties in the areas of education, environmental protection, energy efficiency, wine production and agriculture. I am excited for the opportunity to continue sharing best practices and expanding trade with Chile.”

The agreements build on two important Chile-California exchange programs enacted from 1963 to 1970. The first was launched in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to associate states with developing countries. The second was launched in 1965 between the University of California system and the University of Chile, which paved the way for thousands of Chilean students to study at University of California. The university exchange program is credited in Chile as having helped revolutionize the country’s agricultural practices.

California is third in total exports to Chile, following Texas and Florida. Major exports include petroleum and coal, computer parts, machinery and transportation products. In 2006, total trade with the U.S. was $14.8 billion. Since the U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement went into effect in 2004, U.S.-Chilean trade has increased by 154 percent and trade with California has increased by more than 250 percent.