Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for stronger ties between China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries, emphasizing mutual support and cooperation across various fields. Speaking at the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing on Tuesday, Wang highlighted the importance of unity among nations in the Global South.
“We should firmly support each other’s core interests and deepen practical cooperation,” Wang said. He urged both sides to reject divisive confrontations and promote openness and win-win collaborations, setting a new example for international relations.
Wang emphasized the shared responsibility of China and LAC countries to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests. “China firmly supports LAC countries in maintaining their independence and exploring paths of modernization suited to their national conditions,” he noted.
He called for enhanced economic and trade partnerships, as well as increased security cooperation. China is ready to work closely with LAC countries under initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, aiming to strengthen connectivity and ensure stable industrial and supply chains.
Wang also stressed the importance of combating terrorism in all its forms and deepening dialogues on cybersecurity. Additionally, he highlighted the need to expand cultural and people-to-people exchanges to solidify the foundation of China-LAC friendship.
“China will continue to practice true multilateralism with LAC countries,” Wang said, emphasizing the commitment to uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and an international order based on international law.
Foreign ministers from LAC countries attending the forum praised the achievements of the China-CELAC Forum over the past decade. They expressed eagerness to seize new opportunities arising from China’s high-quality development and expand comprehensive cooperation for mutual benefit.
The LAC representatives reaffirmed their support for the one-China principle and their dedication to multilateralism. They expressed a shared vision of building a peaceful, just, green, inclusive, and sustainable future.
