China's relationship with Latin American and Caribbean countries has entered a new phase. This phase is characterized by equality, mutual benefit, innovation, openness, and a focus on benefiting the people. Beijing is ready to make new progress in building a China-LAC community with a shared future.

These remarks were made in a congratulatory message sent to the ninth summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), which opened in Honduras. The world is currently undergoing significant changes, and the Global South, including China and Latin American and Caribbean countries, is experiencing strong growth.

Xi praised CELAC's commitment to independence, self-reliance, and strength through unity. He noted its important role in safeguarding regional peace and stability, promoting development and cooperation, and advancing regional integration. He expressed his sincere wishes for Latin American and Caribbean countries and their peoples to achieve greater success in national development and rejuvenation. This would contribute to the solidarity and cooperation of the Global South.

China-LAC relations have proven resilient amidst international challenges. The two sides have deepened political mutual trust, expanded practical cooperation, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges. This has benefited both peoples and served as an example for South-South cooperation.

China will host the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing this year. All CELAC member states are welcome to gather in China to discuss future development and cooperation. The aim is to contribute wisdom and strength to addressing global challenges, driving reform in global governance, and safeguarding world peace and stability.

The China-CELAC Forum, launched during Xi's visit to the region in 2014, has become a key platform. It allows China and Latin American and Caribbean countries to enhance political mutual trust, align development strategies, and bring their peoples closer. This has played a positive role in advancing China-LAC relations. The upcoming ministerial meeting will send a strong message from the Global South, emphasizing development through solidarity and providing stability to the world.