From November 20 to 24, Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou is undertaking a state visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. This significant visit aims to enhance strategic cooperation and fortify diplomatic and commercial ties between the two nations.
The discussions are expected to cover a potential free trade agreement, the green economy, trade promotion, and digital growth. President Lacalle Pou will also attend a seminar on investment prospects, reflecting Uruguay’s comprehensive approach to strengthening connections with China across multiple sectors.
The Uruguayan delegation includes ministers from the agriculture and fisheries, livestock, industry, and foreign ministries, along with business representatives. This underscores the country’s commitment to exploring new avenues for bilateral commercial and strategic relations.
Since establishing bilateral relations in 1988, Uruguay and China have built a strong partnership based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation. In 2016, the two countries pledged to become strategic partners, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.
China has become Uruguay’s largest trading partner in recent years. In the previous year, bilateral trade reached $7.5 billion, a 14.9 percent increase from the year before, with Uruguay exporting goods worth $2.98 billion and importing goods valued at $4.46 billion.
Uruguay’s participation in the sixth China International Import Expo allowed its cattle, agricultural products, textiles, jewelry, and cultural tourism offerings to enter Chinese markets. This not only solidified Uruguay’s status as a significant trading partner for China but also marked a new milestone in bilateral ties.
This state visit is expected to usher in a new phase in Uruguay-China relations, with both countries seeking to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors and explore new opportunities for mutual benefit.
Reference(s):
Uruguayan president's China state visit to fortify partnership
cgtn.com
