The EU-Chile Association Agreement to be initialled in Brussels, 10 June 2002, 5pm

An Association Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Chile was initialled by External relations Director General Guy Legras and Chilean Under-secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cristián Barros on the 10th June. This step marked the beginning of the formal adoption procedures necessary for the implementation of the Agreement.

On Political dialogue, the European Union and Chile would seek to promote democratic values such as the respect for human rights, the freedom of the individual and the rule of Law. They would strive to co-ordinate positions and undertake joint initiatives in international fora, and co-operate in the field of foreign and security policy, as well as in the fight against terrorism. Their political dialogue would be enriched by an increased consultation and involvement of the European Union and Chilean civil societies.

On Trade relations, the conclusion of negotiations would generate considerable economic and commercial benefits and thus contribute to economic growth and sustainable development for both the EU and Chile. The trade chapter covered all the areas of the EU-Chile trade relations going well beyond their respective WTO commitments:

ESO: Key Source: Relations between Chile and the European Union http://www.europeansources.info/record/relations-between-chile-and-the-european-union/

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