Introduction to International Politics

Foreign Event Analysis

Locale[]
China
Title
China and Latin America to strengthen economic ties
Summary
Chinese President Hu Jintao is visiting Cuba, Peru, and Costa Rica during his international tour this month. On November 22 he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation annual conference in Lima. The Chinese government has already released statements declaring the goodwill and intentions of Jintao to sign several economic agreements with APEC and these Latin American states.
Analysis
Hu Jintao’s visit to Latin America signifies his strategic interest in strengthening ties with key states in that region. Recognizing the potential of Cuba, Peru, and Costa Rica as trade partners, China will work to promote free trade. The more closely these states interact with China economically, the more stable they will be as political allies. For example, China is the second biggest trade partner of Cuba (following Venezuela) with 2.7 billion dollars in 2007. This strong connection ties China and Cuba together socially and politically as well because of the great amount of contact and trust that trade creates between the two states. As Jintao promotes more trade with Peru and Costa Rica, as well, China will gain strong allies and trade partners in that region.
Jintao’s presence at the APEC conference is particularly significant and strategic because it shows China’s desire to use international institutions to foster communication and economic growth. The conference will be a forum for states to voice their concerns and intentions for the focus of economic attention. Chinese officials have indicated Jinato’s concern for the current global financial crisis and the grain price. These issues, which affect all members of APEC, will need special international cooperation for which the conference will provide space. Jintao’s interactions with APEC, Cuba, Peru, and Costa Rica will lead to increased trade and communication of key issues.
Perspectivel
Liberal
In-Region URL
http://french.cri.cn/181/2008/11/14/50s177442.htm
Out-of-Region URL
http://www.lemonde.fr/asie-pacifique/article/2008/11/18/pekin-resserre-ses-liens-avec-les-economies-latino-americaines_1119993_3216.html#ens_id=1120092
Submitted
November 19, 2008 at 10:01 pm