Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bolivian President Luis Arce marked four decades of bilateral relations on Wednesday, exchanging messages that highlighted growing economic collaboration and shared development goals. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges during the anniversary event.
President Xi emphasized China's dedication to 'mutual respect and win-win cooperation' under the Belt and Road Initiative, while Arce acknowledged Chinese investments in Bolivia's lithium extraction and transportation networks. Bilateral trade between the two nations has grown 12-fold since 2000, reaching $2.3 billion in 2023, with Chinese technology playing a key role in modernizing Bolivia's energy sector.
The anniversary comes as Chinese firms expand partnerships in Bolivia's renewable energy projects, including solar power plants and electric vehicle battery production. Analysts suggest this relationship could serve as a model for South-South cooperation, combining China's technological expertise with Bolivia's natural resources.
