In a vibrant keynote at the opening of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled plans to strengthen solidarity and cooperation between the Chinese mainland and Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) countries. His speech was a call for deeper communication and strategic coordination on international and regional challenges, aiming to drive mutual growth and cultural exchange.
Xi outlined an ambitious strategy: over the next three years, the Chinese mainland will invite 300 leading political party officials from CELAC member states to visit annually. This initiative is designed to exchange governance experiences and solidify ties, reinforcing a UN-centered international system and an order based on international law.
Highlighting the importance of economic and technological advancement, the speech stressed the need to align development strategies and expand cooperation in areas such as clean energy, 5G communications, digital economy, and artificial intelligence. In traditional sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and minerals, Xi emphasized boosting trade by importing more high-quality products from LAC countries while encouraging Chinese enterprises to expand investments in the region.
In a move to bridge cultures, Xi also spoke about implementing the Global Civilization Initiative to support values like equality, mutual learning, and dialogue. Efforts will be made in cultural heritage protection through joint archaeological research, conservation of historic sites, and combating illicit trafficking of cultural property.
Security was another key focus. Through the Global Security Initiative, both sides will work on disaster management, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, anti-corruption, drug control, and fighting transnational organized crime, aiming to maintain regional stability.
To foster people-to-people exchanges, the Chinese mainland will provide CELAC member states with 3,500 government scholarships and 10,000 training opportunities over the next three years. Additionally, a visa-free policy for five countries in Latin America and the Caribbean will soon be expanded, enhancing travel and cultural connections. 🌐🤝
This bold plan is seen as a dynamic step toward creating a more interconnected and cooperative future, resonating with a generation eager to explore new global opportunities and cultural bridges.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping: China willing to strengthen cooperation with LAC countries
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