Chile, the first South American country to establish diplomatic relations with China, is experiencing a moment of "unprecedented closeness" with the Asian country, Chilean Foreign Minister Ignacio Walker said on Monday.

"There is no doubt that we are experiencing an important moment between Chile and the People's Republic of China, which has been a real driving force promoting better understanding and closeness," Walker told Xinhua during a celebration marking the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Chile and China established diplomatic ties on December 15, 1970.

Walker also noted that Chile was among the first countries to recognize the quality of China's economy and internal market, and to sign the document supporting China's entry into the World Trade Organization.

Chile has also been the first in the region to sign a free trade pact with China, Walker added.

(Xinhua News Agency December 13, 2005)