Beijing (TDI): Colombian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luis Gilberto Murillo started a four-day visit to China on Wednesday, reflecting the ongoing trend of high-level exchanges between China and Latin American nations.
Analysts suggest that this visit aims to bolster collaboration and invigorate development within the Global South, particularly as multilateral mechanisms like BRICS gain traction among Latin American countries, according to Global Times.
Murillo’s visit, initiated at the invitation of Foreign Minister Wang Yi, is expected to center on economic, trade, and financial cooperation between China and Colombia, especially in light of the current global economic landscape.
Wang Youming, director of the Institute of Developing Countries at the China Institute of International Studies, noted that discussions will likely encompass traditional sectors such as minerals and agriculture, as well as emerging fields like the digital and green economies.
Colombian media outlet Colombia One reported that strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties will be a key focus during Murillo’s discussions.
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Additionally, the agenda may include Colombia’s involvement in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which President Gustavo Petro emphasized during his visit to China in October 2023, underscoring Colombia’s readiness to align its geographic advantages with BRI development strategies.
Analysts assert that Latin American countries are increasingly inclined to balance relations among global powers rather than choosing sides, recognizing the opportunities presented by China’s growth.
Growing Interest in BRI
The BRI, in particular, has provided significant benefits to participating nations over the past decade, including job creation and economic growth, which starkly contrasts with the slower implementation of the US’ Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity.
Many countries, including Brazil, have shown a growing interest in the BRI, prompting Colombia to adopt a more open stance towards the initiative.
This interest extends to the BRICS group as well, as Colombia seeks to engage with emerging economies advocating for reform in global governance.
Furthermore, discussions during Murillo’s visit may explore Colombia’s potential membership in BRICS, reflecting the increasing appeal of multilateral cooperation among developing nations.
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This year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum, underscoring the importance of high-level exchanges between China and the region.
Experts predict that Murillo’s visit will further enhance cooperation and foster collaboration among Global South countries in addressing shared global challenges.
