This opens up the possibility of renewed diplomatic relations and closer cooperation between these estranged neighbours, despite ongoing Bolivian frustrations over access to the sea and a dispute over cross-border water flows, currently being considered at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
No Bolivian government can afford to relinquish the goal of regaining access to the Pacific.
Sympathy for the Bolivian aspiration will not come to be shared by the majority of Chileans.
Steps may be taken to smooth the passage of Bolivian goods through Arica.
A Silala settlement could ease cooperation on more general management of binational basins in a context of ever greater water shortage.
A need for bilateral cooperation in managing undocumented (mostly Venezuelan) migration could further facilitate a strengthening of ties.
