Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — In a significant move to deepen ties with Bolivia, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China will align its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Bolivia’s 2025 development plan. The announcement came during a meeting with Bolivian President Luis Arce on the sidelines of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday.
President Xi highlighted the positive momentum in the relationship between China and Bolivia, noting that both nations have consistently supported each other on issues of core interests and major concerns. “The Belt and Road Initiative has yielded fruitful results, bringing tangible benefits to the peoples of both nations,” Xi stated.
As the two countries approach the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, Xi emphasized the opportunity to enhance their historical friendship. He expressed China’s support for Bolivia in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions. “We are willing to deepen strategic mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and elevate the China-Bolivia strategic partnership to a new level,” he said.
President Xi called for strengthened exchanges between governments, legislative bodies, political parties, and local entities. He underscored the importance of sharing governance and development experiences to foster mutual growth.
The Chinese leader also highlighted areas for expanded cooperation, including infrastructure construction, high-altitude agriculture, green development, and the digital economy. “By expanding cooperation in these sectors, we can achieve shared prosperity and advancement,” Xi remarked.
On the global stage, Xi urged the two nations to deepen collaboration within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations and BRICS. He emphasized promoting unity and self-reliance among countries in the Global South and advancing common development goals.
Furthermore, President Xi affirmed China’s support for the integration of Latin America. He expressed willingness to work with Bolivia to strengthen the China-CELAC Forum mechanism, enhancing cooperation and mutual understanding between China and Latin American countries.
The meeting between the two leaders signifies a strengthening of bilateral relations, with a focus on strategic alignment and shared development objectives, marking a new chapter in China-Bolivia ties.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping: China will align BRI cooperation with Bolivia's 2025 plan
cgtn.com
