CGTN SPOTLIGHTS CHINA-CELAC GAINS AS FORUM OPENS IN BEIJING

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- As the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum opened in Beijing, CGTN published an article highlighting the growing cooperation between China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

The article underscores China’s commitment to working closely with CELAC countries through five major projects aimed at advancing mutual modernisation efforts.

A prime example of this collaboration is the China-aided National Library of El Salvador, which has become a prominent cultural landmark since its opening in late 2023. The 24,000-square-metre facility is a hub for youth education, art exhibitions, and cultural events, serving both educational and community needs.

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It is one of over 200 infrastructure projects China has supported in the region, which have collectively created nearly one million local jobs.

During his speech at the forum, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that China and CELAC countries have developed a partnership rooted in a shared vision for the future—one based on equality, mutual benefit, openness, and inclusiveness, with a focus on delivering real, meaningful improvements to people's lives.

President Xi also pointed out that 2024 marks 10 years since the China-CELAC Forum was officially established.

According to a statement, since then, China has become the region's second-largest trading partner and the number one partner for countries like Chile, Brazil, and Peru, and that bilateral trade has surged to US$500 billion in 2024. (US$1=RM4.30)

Key projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—like the newly opened Chancay Port in Peru and Jamaica’s North-South Highway—have helped cut transport time and costs, creating thousands of jobs and boosting trade efficiency. According to a CGTN poll, over 80 per cent of Latin Americans believe BRI projects are beneficial to the region’s development.

Further solidifying this partnership, China will contribute a US$9.2 billion credit fund to CELAC countries and provide scholarships, training opportunities, and visa-free policies for several Latin American nations, enhancing ties in areas like education, technology, and poverty reduction.

Xi’s speech stressed the need for continued cooperation, citing the importance of unity in the Global South amid rising global challenges, and reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Latin American and Caribbean nations on their paths to modernisation.

-- BERNAMA