OREANDA-NEWS. March 11, 2010. The President of Russia's message reads, in part:

"I know that the beginning of your important tenure as state leader coincides with a number of serious challenges Chile is facing as a result of natural disasters. I would like to again express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims, my sympathy to everyone affected by the disaster, and to once again confirm Russia's willingness to continue to provide all necessary assistance in the earthquake's aftermath.

Our countries are linked by long-standing relations of friendship and cooperation, which have been developing dynamically in recent years. We are ready to expand fruitful cooperation with Chile in political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, as well as to increase mutual investments. I am convinced that together we can find the quickest way to implement new joint projects in such promising areas as energy, mining, the metallurgical industry, transport and telecommunications."