In the vast salt flats of Catamarca, Argentina, the first rays of sunlight illuminate a landscape poised for transformation. Gabriel Molina, a young politician, stands before a new lithium project, envisioning a future where Argentina and China collaborate for a greener world.
Catamarca, rich in lithium and other valuable minerals, has become a hub for renewable energy initiatives. Chinese companies like Zijin Mining Group and China Power Construction are partnering with local communities, creating jobs and igniting economic growth.
“Chinese enterprises are not just investing; they’re providing international platforms for local youth,” says Molina, advisor on International Trade and Regional Integration at Argentina’s Ministry of Infrastructure. “It’s a cross-border green revolution pooling wisdom and strength.”
Since China and Argentina signed a memorandum in 2022 to promote the Belt and Road Initiative, cooperation has flourished. Young leaders like Molina are inspired by the technological advancements and economic opportunities emerging from this partnership.
Across Latin America, youth are engaging with China’s green development. The “Bridge of the Future” China-Latin American Young Leaders Training Campus in 2023 saw participants from nine countries explore China’s cities, exchanging ideas on cultural exchange, digital economy, environmental protection, rural revitalization, and youth development.
Jean Carlos, advisor to the Secretary of the National Congress of Honduras, visited Mayuan Village in China’s Jiangxi Province. There, he witnessed how rural communities are embracing sustainable tourism and green industries. “China’s approach to rural revitalization, harmonizing humanity and nature, is an experience other countries can learn from,” Carlos remarks.
For many like Carlos, it was a first visit to China, transforming perceptions shaped only by media and online content. Visiting companies like iFlytek, he admired China’s innovation-driven growth and the use of technology in improving public welfare. “I hope for closer cooperation between China and Honduras in high-tech sectors,” he says.
Similarly, Grecia Colmenares, secretary-general of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela Youth, found inspiration in China’s emphasis on youth involvement in policy-making and environmental justice. “Our journey taught us the importance of empowering young people in poverty reduction and sustainable development,” she reflects.
China’s commitment to ecological civilization impressed Nadia Beatriz Martins García Pereira, national secretary of the Youth League of the Workers’ Party of Brazil. Familiar with the philosophy that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” she delved deeper into China’s environmental practices. “China’s experience offers significant lessons for Latin American countries,” Beatriz notes.
As Brazil assumes the G20 presidency with the motto “Building a just world and a sustainable planet,” the synergy with China’s sustainable development goals is clear. Youth from both regions are united in their commitment to fostering a greener future.
“I hope that the exchange between Chinese and Latin American youth will be like a lamp, illuminating our shared future,” says Colmenares. Their collaborative efforts signal a promising path toward global sustainability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
