BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Deval Patrick and Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos have signed a memorandum of understanding intended to strengthen collaboration between Massachusetts and the South American nation.

The agreement focuses on the areas of science, technology and innovation — including the life sciences — and clean energy industries.

Last year, the United States signed a free trade agreement with Colombia, opening up an estimated $1.1 billion market for U.S. exports.

Patrick says the agreement will boost the state’s partnership with Colombia and help spur job creation in Massachusetts.

Patrick and his wife Diane were scheduled to leave Colombia on Wednesday and head to Florida for vacation.