China and Colombia have taken a significant step in strengthening their relationship by signing a new cooperation plan under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The agreement was witnessed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Colombian President Gustavo Petro during their meeting in Beijing on Wednesday.
The two leaders met on the sidelines of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum. This year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Colombia, making the new agreement a milestone in their bilateral ties.
President Xi highlighted the importance of Colombia as a key country in Latin America. He expressed China’s willingness to work with Colombia to enhance strategic communication and deepen political mutual trust. \”Standing at a new historical starting point, China is ready to promote greater development of our strategic partnership and bring more benefits to the people of both countries,\” Xi said.
As part of the cooperation plan, China aims to import more high-quality products from Colombia and encourages Chinese enterprises to invest in Colombian infrastructure projects. Both countries are looking to expand collaboration in emerging fields such as wind energy, new energy vehicles, digital economy, and artificial intelligence, with a shared goal of achieving green and low-carbon transformation.
President Petro expressed enthusiasm for the burgeoning partnership. \”Colombia looks forward to further boosting ties with China,\” he stated. \”We should deepen political mutual trust and enhance mutual support.\” He emphasized the potential for collaboration under the BRI, particularly in trade, infrastructure, and technology, to improve the lives of people in both nations.
The meeting also addressed broader international concerns. Petro noted the complex and volatile global situation, urging countries to stand together against unilateral actions that are not conducive to the world. He affirmed Colombia’s willingness to work closely with China to safeguard international fairness and justice, protecting the common interests of developing countries.
President Xi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that China-Latin America and the Caribbean cooperation is an important part of South-South cooperation. He hailed the successful holding of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum as a positive signal to the world for shared development and revitalization.
The new cooperation plan under the Belt and Road Initiative signals a promising future for China-Colombia relations, with opportunities for growth and collaboration that could benefit not only both countries but also the wider global community.
