Chancay Port, Peru — In a milestone for China-Peru relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte jointly inaugurated the Chancay Port via video link on November 14. President Xi hailed the port as “a new starting point of an Inca Trail of the New Era,” emphasizing its role in strengthening ties across the Pacific.
Located approximately 80 kilometers north of Lima, Chancay Port is poised to become a deep-water hub of strategic importance. Backed by the South American continent and facing the Pacific Ocean, the port is designed to handle mega container ships with capacities of up to 18,000 TEUs. Once operational, it will have an annual handling capacity of 1 million TEUs, with plans to expand to 1.5 million TEUs, solidifying Peru’s position as a vital land-sea gateway between Asia and Latin America.
“From Chancay to Shanghai, the Belt and Road Initiative is bearing fruit in Peru before our eyes,” President Xi stated during the ceremony. “A new Asia-Latin America land-sea corridor for the new era is taking shape.” His remarks underscore the significance of the port as a landmark project under the Belt and Road Initiative, fostering closer economic integration and shared prosperity.
The port’s development reflects a shared vision between China and Peru. “This new positioning reflects the shared understanding between China and Peru of the emerging dynamics of global economic growth,” noted Zhou Zhiwei, a research fellow at the Institute of Latin American Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “Peru is enthusiastic to connect with the vast market of China, the most vibrant market in the Asia-Pacific region.”
The project not only enhances trade connectivity but also revitalizes historical ties. Over 500 years ago, the Inca Trail connected communities across the Andes. Today, Chancay Port breathes new life into that legacy, opening fresh avenues for Peru’s progress as a coastal nation.
The collaboration on Chancay Port exemplifies the win-win spirit of international cooperation advocated by both nations. As the port comes to life, it promises to boost economic development, create jobs, and enhance cultural exchange, fostering deeper understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Peru.
Reference(s):
'Neighbors' across Pacific: China, Peru exemplifies win-win spirit
cgtn.com