Following a forum with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (Celac) in Beijing that finished on Tuesday, China and the 33-member bloc agreed to strengthen ties across a range of sectors and expressed support for free trade and a “more democratic” international system.
The event took place against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s global tariffs and other foreign policy initiatives that have raised questions about the future shape of the world order.
On Wednesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said Beijing wanted to work with Celac to address their core interests and concerns.
“We believe … the China-Celac Forum will firmly stride into its next golden decade, opening a new chapter of the Global South’s solidarity,” he said.
He echoed the language of China’s top diplomat Wang Yi, who characterised the event as a “complete success”.
