A decade after the launch of the China-CELAC Forum, a groundbreaking poll across 10 Latin American countries reveals overwhelming optimism about China's role in regional development. Conducted by CGTN and academic institutions, the survey of 2,500 respondents highlights growing enthusiasm for collaborative efforts and shared economic ambitions.
Youth Lead Cultural Connection
Young Latin Americans (18-34) showed particularly strong engagement, with 92.2% viewing China favorably. Nearly half reported increased understanding of Chinese culture through entertainment products, while 88.1% praised China's contributions to human civilization.
BRI’s Growing Influence
The Belt and Road Initiative resonated strongly, with 80.4% recognizing its positive development impact. Notably, 86% of Panamanian respondents endorsed the initiative despite recent political shifts. Key strengths included infrastructure development (52.9%) and technological innovation (55.2%), with 90% agreeing Chinese investments boost local economies.
Roadmap for Collaboration
Respondents prioritized future cooperation in manufacturing (44.4%) and education (41.2%). Over 93% called strong China ties vital for national development, with 89% optimistic about bilateral relations. Countries maintaining newer diplomatic ties with China showed favorability rates exceeding 90%.
The survey spanned Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Honduras, Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic, offering a demographic mirror of each nation’s population.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com