At the opening of the 4th China-CELAC ministerial meeting in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined a bold new vision for cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean nations (LAC).
Xi emphasized solidarity, pledging to support each other on core interests and to boost communication on global and regional issues. Over the next three years, China will welcome 300 political party officials from CELAC members annually for governance exchanges.
He underscored China’s commitment to the United Nations-centered international order and called for joint efforts to implement the Global Development Initiative. He also emphasized aligning development strategies and advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. “We will work together to safeguard multilateral trade, stabilize supply chains, and foster an open international environment,” Xi said.
The agenda spans traditional sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and minerals, while also steering into emerging fields: clean energy, 5G communications, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence. China plans to import more high-quality LAC products and encourages Chinese businesses to invest across the region.
Cultural and educational ties will receive a boost too: 3,500 government scholarships and 10,000 training slots in China will be offered over the next three years. Five LAC nations will enjoy visa-free travel, with more to follow.
Xi also proposed the Global Civilization Initiative to promote dialogue and mutual respect among cultures, and the Global Security Initiative to strengthen cooperation on disaster management, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and anti-corruption.
For young entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and travelers, this partnership could unlock new avenues—from cross-border startups and sustainable projects to immersive cultural exchanges. As China and LAC countries deepen their ties, the next few years promise a dynamic era of shared growth and innovation.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping: China willing to strengthen cooperation with LAC countries
cgtn.com
