At the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing, President Xi Jinping emphasized the stability and reasonableness of China in stark contrast to the perceived erratic approach of U.S. President Donald Trump. Without directly naming Trump, Xi criticized “bullying and coercion,” highlighting the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China that affects many nations, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. With over 30 Latin American countries represented, Xi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate amidst rising geopolitical tensions, unilateralism, and protectionism.
Experts noted that Trump’s rhetoric, which includes controversial remarks about the Panama Canal and immigrants, has alienated many Latin American leaders. This antagonism appears to have prompted regional countries to seek alternative partnerships. China actively promotes its role as a stabilizing force in the region, rejecting the notion that Latin America exists in the U.S.’s “backyard” and stressing the region’s desire for independence and self-determination.
China has become Latin America’s second-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $500 billion last year. As part of its strategic interests, particularly regarding Taiwan, China is deepening ties with Latin America through infrastructure investments, such as the $1.3 billion Chancay port in Peru.
Xi announced intentions to increase imports from Latin America, encourage Chinese investments, and provide 66 billion yuan ($9.1 billion) in new credit to support regional financing. Colombian President Gustavo Petro also indicated his country’s involvement in China’s Belt and Road initiative, demonstrating a willingness among Latin American nations to engage more closely with China amid uncertainties tied to U.S. relations.
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