Beijing, China—In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Peruvian President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra on Friday in Beijing. The leaders pledged to elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between their countries to new heights, with a focus on deepening cooperation across various sectors.
President Xi highlighted Peru’s pioneering role in Latin America as one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties and a comprehensive strategic partnership with China. He noted that Peru was also the first Latin American nation to sign a free trade agreement with China. “Chinese businesses have significantly contributed to Peru’s economic development and the improvement of its people’s livelihood through major cooperation projects,” Xi stated.
Calling for strengthened political trust, Xi emphasized the importance of aligning China’s Belt and Road Initiative with Peru’s development needs. He proposed expanding collaboration in minerals, energy, manufacturing, and agriculture, as well as in emerging fields like new energy, digital economy, artificial intelligence, and digital healthcare. “China welcomes more quality Peruvian products into our market and hopes Peru will provide a favorable environment for long-term Chinese investment,” he added.
A key highlight of their discussion was the Chancay Port project, a major Belt and Road cooperation endeavor between the two nations. Xi expressed confidence that the port’s timely completion would establish a new land and sea corridor between China and Latin America. “The route from Chancay to Shanghai will become a true road of prosperity, promoting the common development of our countries,” he remarked.
On multilateral cooperation, Xi affirmed China’s support for Peru in hosting the 2024 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting. He underscored the need for solidarity among emerging markets and Global South countries to promote an inclusive global economy. “Together, we can advocate for an equal, orderly, and multi-polar world that supports the common development of Global South countries,” Xi said.
President Boluarte expressed her nation’s commitment to strengthening ties with China. She acknowledged the significant contributions of Chinese investment to Peru’s economy and stressed the potential for further cooperation in infrastructure, technology, and trade. “Peru is eager to deepen our partnership with China, and we are committed to ensuring the success of the upcoming APEC summit,” Boluarte stated.
The meeting marks a milestone in China-Peru relations, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration and mutual growth. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination on international affairs and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
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China will take ties with Peru to new heights as Xi meets Boluarte
cgtn.com
