Chile and Germany on Tuesday signed two aid agreements to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency.

    The pacts, which are worth a total of 50 million euros (74 million U.S. dollars) were signed by Alejandro Foxley, Chile's Foreign Minister and visiting German Economy Minister Michael Glos.

    The agreements is part of a long-term Chilean strategy to boost energy security. Glos said energy development and environment were of special concerns.

    At present, the nation has little gas or petrol reserves and most of its electricity depends on hydro-electric dams.