Blumenauer Statement on Conclusion of Congressional Delegation Visit to Chile

Press Release

Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) released the following statement upon conclusion of the congressional delegation's visit to Chile:

"As we approach the 20th Anniversary of the U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement, and other key milestones on our respective paths to build stronger democracies and more equitable economies, our visit to Chile allowed us to reaffirm the enduring bond of our nations while forging new relationships with the Boric Administration. We had the honor to meet with several Ministers, legislators, environmental advocates, and business leaders, where we learned more about opportunities for strengthening our bilateral cooperation. All outlined compelling goals, and we applaud their focus on policies to safeguard vulnerable communities and ensure more inclusive prosperity.

"While meeting with the Ministers of Energy and Environment, we learned about Chile's leadership on climate change and its efforts to reach carbon neutrality. All of their work is grounded in considering how the Chilean people would be affected by their decisions and how to limit the exploitation of nature. We shared the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act, and were met with great interest in how the climate investments will radiate beyond our shores.

"In the close to two decades since the Free Trade Agreement, bilateral trade has nearly quadrupled, creating thousands of jobs, and setting us up well to expand our economic ties. We are keenly interested in sustainable trade policy that benefits all workers, particularly those in indigenous communities.

"Our delegation reflected on the horrors of the dictatorship while visiting El Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos (the Museum of Memory and Human Rights), which served as a grave reminder of all Chile has overcome and an inspiration for the thriving democracy they've cultivated since then.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to Ambassador Bernadette M. Meehan and Embassy Santiago for helping to make our visit a success, and for working to strengthen ties between the people of the United States and Chile that reflect our shared values. Our delegation returns to the United States with new connections in Colombia and Chile, and a better understanding of how the Ways and Means Committee can deepen our engagement with these critical trading partners."

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