Saint Paul – In December, Governor Tim Pawlenty and First Lady Mary Pawlenty led an historic Minnesota trade mission to Chile and Brazil. In Chile, delegates had meetings in Santiago and Conception to foster stronger economic relations, promote trade exchanges, and explore new business opportunities.

The epicenter of today’s earthquake was just 70 miles from Concepcion, Chile’s second-largest city. Concepcion is the capital of the Bio Bio Region, one of Chile’s 15 first-order administrative divisions, comprising four provinces.

On December 11, 2009, Governor Pawlenty and Bio Bio Regional Intendente Jaime Toha signed a partnership agreement between the State of Minnesota and the Bio Bio Region to strengthen bilateral relations and to promote new education and trade opportunities. While in the Bio Bio Region, the Governor also met with regional government officials, business representatives, and education delegates. In addition, he visited the University of Concepcion, the regional hospital and the Huachipato steel plant.

St. Cloud State University President Earl Potter was a member of the Minnesota trade mission delegation. St. Cloud State has a student exchange program with the University of Concepcion.

The following is a statement from Governor Tim Pawlenty:

“Our prayers are with the people of Chile as they respond to this devastating earthquake. Minnesota’s trade mission to Chile in December strengthened the growing bonds between us. Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts will continue to be with them as they deal with this incredibly difficult situation.”

The following is a statement from St. Cloud State University President Earl Potter:

“The ties between Minnesota and Chile are deeper than many of our citizens probably realize. We’ve been fortunate to have many students study at the University of Concepcion and have also hosted many Chilean students here, including some at St. Cloud State this semester. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to our friends in Concepcion.”

(NOTE: No St. Cloud State University students are currently studying at the University of Concepcion in Chile).