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Advancing China-LAC Cooperation: Xi Jinping's Vision

On May 14, 2025, during the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum held in Beijing, President Xi Jinping revealed a comprehensive roadmap aimed at bolstering solidarity and collaboration between China and the nations of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). This announcement signifies a pivotal moment, marking a commitment to shared growth and cultural connectivity.

Five Key Programs for Cooperation

The outlined five initiatives encompass solidarity, development, civilization, peace, and people-to-people connectivity, reflecting China's broader strategy to enhance mutual interests with LAC countries.

Solidarity Program

Through the Solidarity Program, Xi emphasized strengthening diplomatic ties and mutual support on core issues affecting both sides. The initiative aims to promote a united front in international affairs, underscoring the importance of a rules-based international order anchored by the United Nations. In an effort to foster understanding and share governance practices, China will invite 300 political delegates from CELAC member states annually for exchange visits over the next three years.

Development Program

The Development Program seeks to align with the Global Development Initiative, reinforcing multilateral trading systems and ensuring the unimpeded flow of global supply chains. Xi expressed a commitment to expanding the Belt and Road Initiative, which could result in increased imports of quality products from LAC countries while encouraging Chinese investments in the region. This bolstered cooperation in trade is intended to create an environment conducive to sustainable economic growth for both parties.

Civilization Initiative

In his proposed Civilization Program, Xi called for joint efforts in implementing the Global Civilization Initiative. This entails promoting cultural exchanges rooted in mutual respect, inclusivity, and dialogue among civilizations. Plans for future conferences on inter-civilizational dialogue underscore the desire to enhance cultural understanding and value shared human principles like peace and justice.

Peace Program

The Peace Program focuses on enhancing regional security through collaborative governance on issues such as disaster management, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism. By establishing joint frameworks for addressing transnational organized crime, both China and LAC countries can work toward greater stability in the region.

People-to-People Connectivity

To further deepen interpersonal ties, the People-to-People Connectivity Program will offer 3,500 government scholarships, 10,000 training opportunities, and numerous other initiatives aimed at educational cooperation. The inclusion of a visa-free policy for five LAC nations is also expected to promote greater cultural exchange and mobility.

Global Responses and New Partnerships

Leaders from various LAC nations, including Colombia's President Gustavo Petro and Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, praised these initiatives, viewing them as a transformative step towards deeper bilateral relations. Lula underscored the unbreakable bond between Brazil and China, emphasizing mutual dependency and cooperation as a path for success in the Global South.

Furthermore, Colombia announced its intention to join China's Belt and Road Initiative, pointing towards a future of industrial growth and diversified trade facilitated through Chinese partnerships.

In the context of the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted the forum's success in fostering equal dialogue and cooperation. The meeting culminated in the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and a strategic joint action plan, setting an ambitious agenda for the next two years.

Implications for the Global South

These developments are set against a backdrop of shifting geopolitical landscapes, where Latin America sees China as a dependable partner rooted in cooperative principles rather than hegemonic practices. This sentiment was echoed by leaders at the session, who reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and a united front in international challenges.

Chinese experts suggest that this new chapter in China-LAC relations is positioned to elevate both traditional sectors like agriculture and mining and emerging areas such as digital economics and green technologies, which will be crucial in the years to come.

In conclusion, Xi Jinping's announcement marks a significant turning point for China and LAC relations, fostering a collaborative framework for sustainable development and cultural exchange, while carving a unique path for the Global South to assert its influence in global matters.