Chinese, Chilean scientists hold seminar on astrophysics, astronomy

A Chinese scientific delegation held a joint seminar on astrophysics and astronomy on Monday here with the Chilean National Commission of Scientific and Technological Investigation (CONICYT). Headed by Chen Xiaoya, a vice minister of China's Ministry of Science and Technology, the delegation includes five astronomers who will participate in joint activities with Chilean researchers. Jose Miguel Aguilera, president of the CONICYT, opened the two-day seminar, saying Chile and China are committed to a strategic partnership to advance the training of high-end knowledge. Aguilera said President Sebastian Pinera considers the Asia-Pacific region as a fundamental venue for developing such cooperation. Speaking at the beginning of the seminar, Chen said the program opened a new page in the scientific and technological cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese vice minister also suggested that the two sides promote exchange mechanisms in science, technology and innovation issues, enhance relations between the two countries' research centers, universities and companies, and boost exchanges of young scientists. Lu Fan, Chinese ambassador to Chile, said the seminar is an example of bilateral cooperation based on the consensuses reached by the leaders of the two countries.