China in Latin America

Latin America and the Caribbean are the next stop in China’s global expansion, and the first-ever Chinese white paper for this region, released on 4 November 2008, doesn’t leave any doubt about China’s intentions. Latin America has ‘abundant natural resources, a good base for economic and social growth and tremendous development potential.

The first Chinese immigrants in Latin America arrived in Cuba in 1847 and since then have formed well-established Chinatowns in the majority of Latin American countries. Hearn suggests, ‘Chinatowns are key to the soft power exercised by China in the region.’ This is especially the case in Cuba, Mexico, Peru, Costa Rica and Panama, countries with the largest number of Chinese immigrants. ‘Chinatown’s leaders play a central role in making connections and building partnerships.

China has established diplomatic relations with 21 of the 33 Latin American countries. In 2004, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Venezuela announced recognition of China’s full market economy status.

China in Latin America              

June 18, 2009

By Antonio Castillo

http://the-diplomat.com/2009/06/18/china-in-latin-america/