16-05-2025
The Bulletin May 16, 2025
The rundown: Chinese President Xi Jinping made overtures to Latin American and Caribbean countries this week in a bid to make inroads in the region. Read his full remarks.
Why it matters: Launched under Xi, the China–LAC Community is Beijing's vehicle for expanding trade, infrastructure, and political ties with Latin America and the Caribbean, extending China's reach into a region long seen as part of the United States' sphere of influence. "China and LAC countries are important members of the Global South. Independence and autonomy are our glorious tradition," Xi said in a speech in Beijing. Xi also highlighted key achievements under the initiative, including major projects tied to his trillion-dollar Belt and Road infrastructure plan. Chief among them is the new megaport in Chancay, Peru—a joint development between China's state-owned COSCO Shipping Ports and Peru's Volcan Compañía Minera.
Read more in-depth coverage:
China's Space Projects on US Doorstep Have Military Worried
TL/DR: On Wednesday, during the 10th anniversary of the framework's official launch, Xi struck a contrast between China's focus on "win-win" cooperation and what he portrayed as Trump's administration's combative approach.
What happens now? Xi also unveiled five new cooperative programs for the region, including expanded infrastructure investment and a $9 billion line of credit to support future development.
Deeper reading China Makes Overtures to Allies in America's Backyard
