During his week-long visit to the Chinese mainland, Colombian President Gustavo Petro sat down with He Yanke of CMG to reflect on a decade of China–CELAC cooperation and unveil fresh ambitions. At the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China–CELAC Forum on May 13, Petro officially pledged Colombia to the Belt and Road Initiative. The next day, he signed the cooperation framework, marking a milestone in bilateral ties.
"We want to bring together the Jaguar of the Americas and the Chinese Dragon," Petro said, highlighting plans to boost trade, technology exchange and people-to-people connections across continents.
Since its launch ten years ago, the China–CELAC Forum has grown into a key platform for dialogue between the Chinese mainland and Latin American and Caribbean states. Petro pointed to potential in clean energy, digital infrastructure and sustainable tourism as priority areas for joint projects that benefit communities in both regions.
For young entrepreneurs and tech innovators, this partnership could open doors to cross-border startups and market access, tapping into new supply chains and funding channels. Thought leaders see it as a chance to collaborate on green policies and social programs that address inequality and climate change.
Fans of global culture and travel will likely welcome expanded flight routes, student exchanges and cultural festivals that deepen understanding of Colombia’s coffee traditions, art scene and natural wonders.
As the Colombian president returns home, he carries a message of solidarity and shared growth: when the Jaguar and the Dragon work together, they can power a future of mutual prosperity across oceans and spheres of life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
