Xi unveils roadmap to boost China-LAC cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled a five-point cooperation plan to strengthen ties with Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries at the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing.

The roadmap includes initiatives on solidarity, development, cultural exchange, peace, and people-to-people connectivity. Xi pledged to link China's Belt and Road Initiative with LAC development objectives, boost imports of high-quality products, and stimulate Chinese investment in the region. He also expressed his support for multilateralism and the UN-centered world system, according to Xinhua.

China plans to grant 3,500 scholarships, 10,000 training opportunities, and expand visa-free entry to five LAC countries in order to strengthen educational and cultural ties. Cooperation in areas like cybersecurity, disaster response, and anti-corruption will be strengthened under the peace initiative.

Leaders from Colombia, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay endorsed the plan, calling for enhanced economic, technological, and infrastructure cooperation, and reaffirmed a shared commitment to sovereignty, development, and global South solidarity, Xinhua reported.

The initiative aims to build a shared future for China and LAC nations.