#China #Colombia #Beijing #Chile #Belt and Road Initiative

Strengthening Cooperation: China and Latin America

On May 14, 2025, major advancements in international relations were observed as Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted separate meetings with Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Chilean President Gabriel Boric. This crucial diplomatic engagement took place in Beijing during the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum.

Significance of Meetings

In his conversation with President Petro, Xi emphasized the importance of Colombia's formal joining of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Xi noted that this presents a unique opportunity to elevate bilateral cooperation. This sentiment is echoed by Colombia’s strategic positioning in Latin America, which Xi describes as significant. “This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Colombia. Standing at a new historical starting point, China is willing to make joint efforts with Colombia to advance our strategic partnership,” he stated, highlighting the potential for mutual benefits between the two nations.

Following their discussions, both leaders witnessed the signing of a landmark cooperation plan aimed at jointly developing the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road. This solidifies the framework for future collaborations in various sectors, including trade and infrastructure.

Shared Aspirations

Petro expressed Colombia's eagerness to deepen ties with China and underscored the necessity of enhancing political trust and mutual support. He pointed out that the complexities of the current international situation necessitate collective responses rather than unilateral actions by individual nations. Colombia aims to expand cooperation in sectors such as new energy and artificial intelligence, which will ultimately improve the living standards of its people.

Xi’s interaction with Boric was equally important as they celebrated the 55th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. The shared goal of enriching their comprehensive strategic partnership was highlighted, with Xi encouraging initiatives that would foster common development between their nations.

Boric reinforced this by acknowledging that China has become Chile's most crucial trading partner, advocating for broad-based cooperation in agriculture, technology, and various industrial sectors. Both countries reiterated their commitment to uphold the one-China principle, which remains fundamental to their diplomatic relations.

The Beijing Declaration

The fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum concluded with the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and a joint action plan outlining cooperation areas for 2025-2027. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who had talks with Xi around the same time, called the Beijing Declaration both “an inspiration” and a beacon of hope for developing nations.

The discussions and agreements made during this forum pivotally showcase China’s role as a supporter of the Global South, providing a counter-narrative to the hegemonic practices of larger strategic powers. Experts suggest that the outcomes from these meetings could be seen as a turning point, promoting a new model of globalization that prioritizes cooperation over competition.

Conclusion

In summary, the meetings between Xi Jinping and the Latin American leaders manifest a commitment to diversified development through new partnerships. By enhancing bilateral ties through the initiatives like the Belt and Road, China is poised to reshape its engagement with Latin American countries, paving the way for shared prosperity and mutual growth. The cooperation initiated under these frameworks signals an era of collaborative efforts among nations eager for equitable development and integration into the global economy.