This year, China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) celebrated the 10th anniversary of their cooperation. The Fourth Ministerial Meeting, held on May 13 in Beijing, brought together 28 member states and six regional organizations for a landmark session that underlines a decade of partnership.
A highlight of the event was President Xi Jinping’s opening keynote, calling for “a China-LAC community with a shared future” and urging defenders of multilateralism and free trade. Over 100 global and regional journalists shared live coverage, amplifying messages like “there are no winners in tariff wars.”
On the ground, leaders unveiled five new programs and a Joint Action Plan for 2025–2027 featuring more than 100 cooperative projects. From major infrastructure upgrades to digital economy hubs, these initiatives signal a push toward self-sustaining growth across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Emerging fields stole the spotlight: artificial intelligence collaborations, clean energy partnerships, 5G rollouts and agri-tech ventures are set to transform markets and communities. Observers note that Chinese financing is moving beyond aid to equip LAC partners with tools for long-term resilience.
For young entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts and digital nomads, the meeting highlights fresh opportunities. Sustainable travel routes, joint research grants and startup accelerators under the Belt and Road framework are now key channels for innovation and cultural exchange.
As the rotating CELAC presidency passes to Uruguay, anticipation is high for the next phase of cooperation. With a decade of shared success as a springboard, China and LAC partners are poised to deepen ties, drive high-quality development and shape the future of the Global South.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
