Belinsky recalled that relations were established on December 11th, 1944, when Chile recognized the decisive help provided by the Soviet government and people to the defense of civilization against fascism, paying a tragic cost of 27 million lives.
At the event held last night at the Russian Federation embassy in Santiago, the diplomat said that in Russia they know well the fighter for Chilean independence Bernardo O’Higgins, and the great patriot and president Salvador Allende. They also admire the famous poet and Nobel Prize winner for Literature Pablo Neruda, and the courage and heroism of the singer and composer Victor Jara. “We see Chile as an important partner in Latin America,” he said.
Belinsky, who presented his credentials on November 6th, expressed Russia’s willingness to exchange experiences, knowledge, and technologies to strengthen the production potential in both countries. He said there are good prospects in medicine production, vaccines and radiopharmaceuticals, agriculture, hydropower, and developing maritime and railway transport infrastructure while offering cooperation in the fight against natural disasters.
Referring to the well-known Ilyushin aircraft, Belinsky noted that there are offers of amphibious aircraft for extinguishing fires in periods of forest fires. “The great investment for the future is education. We will continue to promote direct contacts between universities and expand the state quota for Chilean students,” he announced.
Another area that the ambassador considered of utmost importance is culture. He said “It is very gratifying to see how the Chilean spectator demands and appreciates the samples of Russian culture that arrive here. We will try to make more of them.”
The ambassador also considered it very satisfying to discover the strong presence of sambo in Chile, which was recognized as a national combat sport in Russia in 1938 and expressed his willingness to support ventures in this field.
The reception for the 80th anniversary of Russian-Chilean relations was attended by university rectors, academics, businessmen, presidents of sports federations, journalists, writers, and members of the Russian diplomatic corps.
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