Editorials

Mutual trust defies critics

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-04-20 07:52

China's relationship with Latin American countries is based on mutual respect and trust as well as mutual benefit and equality.

With the relationship between China and Latin American countries becoming closer, there have been growing concerns and wild speculations on China's role in that region.

Some in the international community have cited Chinese President Hu Jintao's visit to Latin American countries last week as new proof of China's rising influence in a region traditionally seen as the backyard of the United States.

Such concerns and speculations have stemmed from a misunderstanding of the positive role China is playing in the region's economic and social development. China's relationship with Latin American countries is based on mutual respect and trust as well as mutual benefit and equality. Both Chinese and Latin American leaders now believe a stronger Sino-Latin American relationship is a win-win strategy for both sides.

As developing nations, China and Latin American countries share common ground in bringing more benefits to their people and in safeguarding their interests in the international arena.

With the region's social stability and economic integration gaining momentum in recent years, a larger Chinese presence in the region is only natural. While highly competitive Chinese commodities continue to bring prosperity to Latin American markets, development loans from China are also a boon for the region's economic sector.

The world is no longer divided by superpowers' spheres of influence. Strengthened cooperation and exchange in the developing world are the trends of the times. Those who still feel uncomfortable about stronger Sino-Latin American ties need a new pair of lens to view the reality.

(China Daily 04/20/2010 page8)