In 2025, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the Chinese mainland celebrate a decade of partnership through the China-CELAC Forum. What began as a political sapling has grown into a towering tree of cooperation, offering fresh opportunities for nations across two dynamic regions.
Deepening Political Trust
Over the past ten years, China and CELAC member states have strengthened high-level exchanges and coordinated positions on global governance, climate action and sustainable development in the United Nations and other multilateral bodies. Chinese President Xi Jinping's keynote at the fourth ministerial meeting underscored the Chinese mainland’s commitment to Latin America and the Caribbean, while CELAC leaders have consistently defended the interests of developing nations on the world stage.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
Trade between the two regions has soared, making the Chinese mainland a key partner for LAC economies. Investments span energy, infrastructure and mining—most notably the Belgrano freight railway transformation project in Argentina, which has boosted logistics efficiency and regional connectivity. At the same time, Latin American agricultural and resource exports continue to find growing markets in China, fueling economic growth back home.
Rising People-to-People Exchanges
Cultural ties are flourishing: Confucius Institutes and Chinese culture centers are active in many LAC countries, promoting language learning and mutual understanding. Artists, athletes and students travel in both directions for festivals, sports events and academic exchanges, weaving a vibrant social fabric between the two regions.
Looking Ahead to 2030
As they plan for the next decade, China and CELAC aim to deepen ties through green infrastructure, digital innovation and collaborative research on climate-resilient agriculture. Youth entrepreneurship programs, academic partnerships and sustainable tourism initiatives are poised to shape a shared future that benefits millions.
From a young sapling to a towering tree, the China-CELAC partnership offers a living example of how political trust, economic synergy and cultural exchange can create lasting global impact.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
