China Releases Third Policy Paper on Latin America and the Caribbean, Emphasizing Cooperation and Non-Interference

Beijing Unveils Comprehensive Policy for Latin America and the Caribbean

Beijing officially released its third China Policy Paper on Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. This significant document outlines China's strategic approach to deepening ties with the region, focusing on extensive cooperation and reiterating its stance against external geopolitical interference. The release marks the first such update in nine years, following previous papers issued in November 2008 and November 2016.

Key Pillars of Cooperation and Development

The new policy paper elaborates on China's proposals for exchanges and cooperation across more than 40 areas, addressing the specific needs and concerns of LAC countries in fields such as trade, investment, finance, scientific and technological innovation, and climate change.

China's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cai Wei, described the paper as a 'road map and guidebook' for China-LAC relations in the new era. He emphasized that the document demonstrates China's profound commitment to pursuing common development with LAC countries. The paper is structured around five key programs proposed by President Xi Jinping in May:

• Solidarity
• Development
• Civilization
• Peace
• People-to-people connectivity

These programs aim to advance shared development and revitalization, fostering a 'China-LAC community with a shared future'.

The document also defines the relationship as 'advancing hand in hand as a community with a shared future' and a 'shining example of South-South cooperation'. It expands cooperation into diverse sectors including technology, infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, courts, policing, cyber rules, and military exchanges. Furthermore, it promotes high-value and technology-intensive Chinese exports to the region and encourages Chinese companies to invest in Latin American markets. A significant focus is placed on food security and increasing agricultural imports from LAC countries.

Upholding Principles and Opposing Interference

A central tenet of the policy paper is the reiteration of China's commitment to principles of equality, mutual benefit, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs. Beijing explicitly stated its opposition to 'external geopolitical pressures and third-party interference' in its relations with Latin American and Caribbean nations. The paper also reaffirms the 'one China' principle as a foundational expectation for diplomatic relations.

Martin Charles, Dean of the Latin American and Caribbean Diplomatic Corps in China and Ambassador of Dominica, lauded the policy paper as 'not an abstract declaration, but a practical guide for action'. He noted that its implementation would directly impact sectors such as infrastructure, trade, culture, energy, agriculture, health, and sustainable development, reflecting the complementarity of their economies. Charles also highlighted that LAC countries increasingly perceive China as 'a true friend and a reliable partner'.

Broader Context and Future Outlook

The release of this policy paper comes amidst a global landscape characterized by 'changes unseen in a century' and a significant shift in the international balance of power, with the Global South gaining increasing momentum. China, as a member of the Global South, positions its engagement with LAC within its broader initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and Global Governance Initiative (GGI). Currently, 24 LAC countries have joined China's Belt and Road Initiative, and China stands as Latin America's second-largest trading partner.