Chinese President Xi Jinping announced five new cooperation programs aimed at strengthening ties with Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries during the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing.
In his keynote speech, Xi reflected on the growing partnership between China and LAC nations over the past decade. “Although China and the LAC region are geographically distant, the bonds of our friendship stretch back through centuries,” he said.
The five new initiatives outlined by Xi are:
1. Solidarity Program
China will enhance exchanges with LAC countries, supporting each other on issues of core interest. This includes inviting 300 members from political parties of CELAC member states to visit China annually over the next three years.
2. Development Program
Emphasizing economic cooperation, China pledged to deepen trade and investment ties under the Belt and Road framework. Efforts will focus on infrastructure, agriculture, clean energy, 5G telecommunications, and more. China will provide a RMB66 billion yuan credit line to support development in the region.
3. Civilization Program
Promoting cultural exchange, China plans to launch a conference on China-LAC inter-civilizational dialogue and deepen artistic collaborations. Joint archaeological projects and museum exhibitions are also on the agenda.
4. Peace Program
China aims to collaborate with LAC countries on global security initiatives, including disaster governance, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism. This involves organizing law enforcement training programs and providing equipment assistance.
5. People-to-People Connectivity Program
Over the next three years, China will offer thousands of scholarships and training opportunities to LAC students. Initiatives include launching 300 livelihood projects, supporting vocational education, and promoting cultural exchanges through films, TV programs, and tourism dialogues. China will also implement visa exemptions for five LAC countries, expanding the policy in the future.
Xi concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation. “No matter how the world changes, China will always stand by LAC countries as a good friend and a good partner,” he stated.
The China-CELAC Forum, established ten years ago, has become a significant platform for fostering cooperation between China and LAC nations, with trade exceeding $500 billion last year.
