A landmark diplomatic meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uruguayan President Luis Alberto Lacalle Pou has led to the elevation of their countries’ relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This significant development in the China-Uruguay relationship occurred during discussions held in Beijing on Wednesday.
The talks coincided with the 35th anniversary of China-Uruguay diplomatic relations and the fifth anniversary of Uruguay’s engagement with the Belt and Road Initiative. President Xi emphasized the journey of mutual respect and win-win cooperation characterizing the bilateral relations since their inception, with special mention of the robust support shared during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Xi announced China’s readiness to collaborate with Uruguay to enhance bilateral relations using the comprehensive strategic partnership as a foundation. He stressed the importance of making Sino-Uruguayan relations a model of solidarity and cooperation, transcending differences in size, systems, and cultures.
Xi shared insights into the significance of Chinese modernization, expressing a willingness to strengthen governance exchanges with Uruguay. He emphasized enhancing political trust, sharing development opportunities, and jointly promoting modernization.
Xi urged increased exchanges among legislatures, political parties, and localities. He saw the Belt and Road cooperation plan as an opportunity to synchronize development strategies and explore new cooperative avenues in trade services, digital economy, and clean energy.
Xi pointed out the shared perspectives and common interests between China and Uruguay on various global issues. He advocated for strengthened coordination within multilateral mechanisms like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.
Xi expressed China’s commitment to fostering China-Latin America relations and appreciated Uruguay’s role in this dynamic. He supported Uruguay’s efforts in promoting cooperation between China and regional organizations like Mercosur.
President Lacalle acknowledged the One-China policy and noted Uruguay’s commitment to multilateralism and free trade. He remarked on the multi-dimensional growth of Uruguay-China relations, extending beyond economy and trade.
Lacalle expressed support for various Chinese global initiatives and showed eagerness to strengthen cooperation in multiple fields, including science and technology, sports, and tourism.
The talks concluded with the signing of the Belt and Road cooperation plan and other bilateral agreements covering trade and investment, digital economy, green development, and more.
The visit also saw the issuance of a joint statement on the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership, underscoring the commitment of both nations to a shared future of cooperation and development.
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