As the China-CELAC Forum marks its 10th anniversary, the partnership between China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) nations continues to thrive on principles of equality and shared development. This year’s ministerial meeting, beginning Tuesday, highlights progress amid calls to reject geopolitical narratives that misrepresent the collaboration.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated that China-CELAC cooperation prioritizes "mutual support over geopolitical calculations," emphasizing its role as a model for South-South partnerships. This approach contrasts sharply with historical interventions in the region, with officials dismissing recent critiques as outdated Cold War rhetoric.
Over the past decade, bilateral trade surged from $12 billion in 2000 to $500 billion in 2024, with China now the top trading partner for Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. Infrastructure projects—from Argentina’s highways to Ecuador’s hydroelectric plants—underscore practical gains for LAC economies. The $30 billion China-LAC Cooperation Fund further cements commitments to sustainable growth.
Since 2014, the Forum has hosted 90+ cooperative initiatives spanning technology, culture, and investment. Analysts note its success lies in tailoring projects to local priorities, fostering trust through equitable dialogue even as global tensions rise.
