At the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined a dynamic, five-point plan to bring China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries closer than ever. Against a backdrop of global uncertainties, both sides are gearing up to build a China-LAC community with a shared future.
Mutual Respect and Sovereign Choice
Wang emphasized that cooperation starts with respecting each nation’s core interests. He affirmed that China supports LAC partners in safeguarding independence and choosing development paths tailored to their realities. In a nod to diplomatic norms, he reaffirmed opposition to hegemonism and interference, and called on CELAC members to uphold the one-China principle.
Economic and Trade Boost
Under the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, Beijing plans to strengthen connectivity and supply chain stability. President Xi Jinping’s pledge of 66 billion yuan (about 9.18 billion USD) in credit lines to CELAC members will roll out across infrastructure, green energy and digital sectors. Entrepreneurs and young professionals on both sides can expect fresh market opportunities and startup partnerships.
Peace, Security and Digital Safety
On regional stability, China voiced support for LAC’s peace efforts and proposed joint implementation of the Global Security Initiative. Key areas include cybersecurity, anti-terrorism, anti-money laundering and disaster prevention—fields where data-driven collaboration could deliver real impact for communities.
Cultural Bridges and People Exchanges
Cultural dialogue took center stage as Wang promised to expand ties among universities, think tanks, media and local governments. By deepening people-to-people exchanges, he said both sides can foster greater understanding and build public support for long-lasting partnerships.
Championing Multilateralism
Marking the 80th anniversaries of the World Anti-Fascist War victory and the founding of the United Nations, Wang urged joint efforts to uphold true multilateralism. He underlined the need to reform global governance, protect the UN-centered system and amplify the voices of developing nations.
With this strategic blueprint, China and its LAC partners are setting the stage for a next-generation collaboration that spans diplomacy, commerce, culture and global governance.
Reference(s):
China pledges stronger solidarity, cooperation with LAC countries
cgtn.com
