SANTIAGO DE CHILE.–Committed to strategic cooperation, foreign ministers of member countries of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), alongside representatives of China, will participate this Monday in the 2nd Cooperation Forum between this regional bloc and the Asian giant.
Meanwhile, experts held consultations on Sunday, January 21, where the approval of a final declaration, action plan and a special declaration on China’s Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road project were discussed, as part of efforts to strengthen relations.
Through the social network Twitter, the national coordinator for Cuba and Deputy Foreign Minister, Abelardo Moreno, noted that CELAC and Chinese representatives exchanged ideas regarding the commitment to promote multilateralism and continue defending the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.
Meanwhile, the host country’s Foreign Minister, Heraldo Muñoz, explained that CELAC hopes to reach agreements with Beijing on matters such as energy, connectivity, infrastructure, the environment and multilateral relations, including political aspects.
The head of Chilean diplomacy, quoted by PL, congratulated his country on its visionary role, having recognized China in 1970, and being the first South American nation to do so, and highlighted relations in numerous areas.
Likewise, Muñoz referred to the Chinese Silk Road initiative, noting that Chilean President Michelle Bachelet was a special guest at the conference held in Beijing regarding this project.
“In terms of the Silk Road and Belt, CELAC will undertake a profound review to see to what extent it can facilitate a closer approach to China, something we value very much in times of protectionism in certain parts of the world,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, responding in writing to Chilean newspaper El Mercurio, said the message was clear: “China is willing to continue to consider them (CELAC countries) as priority and important partners.”
