China released its third Policy Paper on Latin America and the Caribbean on Wednesday, signaling a new stage of cooperation. The paper aims to expand trade, cultural ties, and political engagement, reinforcing China-LAC relations across multiple sectors.
The new document follows earlier editions issued in 2008 and 2016. It introduces five programs to build a China-LAC Community with a shared future: Solidarity, Development, Civilization, Peace, and People-to-People Connectivity. These initiatives will boost cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and security.
Moreover, the paper emphasizes China’s role in global economic reforms and initiatives such as the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative.
Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Cai Wei delivered the keynote at the Beijing launch. Diplomats and media representatives from multiple LAC countries attended. Cai highlighted that China-LAC relations now extend beyond economic transactions. He said, “The five programs aim to boost shared development and revitalization, and LAC countries have widely welcomed them.”
Martin Charles, Dean of the diplomatic corps of Latin American and Caribbean States in China and Ambassador of Dominica, noted that the relationship rests on shared values. He added that the paper will guide collaboration in infrastructure, education, agriculture, and culture.
Importantly, the policy clarifies China’s stance on trilateral cooperation. It states that China-LAC relations neither target nor exclude any third party. Instead, they focus on mutual interests and global trends toward peace, development, and win-win outcomes.
With the release of the third policy paper, China-LAC relations now have a clear framework for deepening political trust, fostering economic integration, and promoting social cooperation. Officials expect these initiatives to strengthen ties and ensure long-term stability between China and LAC nations.
