China Rejects US Criticism of Global South Investments, Defends Cooperation

Responding to recent comments by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding China's investments in Global South countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the issue on Tuesday. Bessent had characterized China's investments as exploitative, alleging they resulted in debt burdens and the seizure of mineral rights.

Lin Jian countered that the US was not in a position to criticize the cooperation between China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) nations. He highlighted China's commitment to the Global South, emphasizing its role in promoting solidarity and revitalization. China's economic and trade collaborations with Global South countries, as well as others, are conducted in accordance with international and market regulations, focusing on mutual benefit and complementarity.

According to Lin, this cooperation has improved the well-being of people in developing countries and fostered economic transformation and advancement, leading to tangible benefits for prosperity and development. China's practical cooperation with LAC countries is based on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, significantly boosting socioeconomic progress in the region and receiving positive feedback. Lin further stated that the US's historical actions in Latin America had left the region in a vulnerable state.

The Chinese Embassy in Argentina also responded to Bessent's remarks, expressing strong opposition. The embassy accused Bessent of maliciously misrepresenting China's legitimate cooperation with other nations. It refuted claims of "rapacious deals" and "debt traps," while acknowledging attempts to create division between China and countries like Argentina and those in Africa.

The embassy emphasized that China provides assistance to developing countries, including those in Latin America and Africa, without imposing political conditions. This cooperation has effectively supported economic and social development and improved living standards, receiving positive reception from local governments and citizens. The embassy concluded by stating that if the US cannot offer similar support, it should refrain from obstructing other countries' efforts to assist developing nations and avoid prioritizing its geopolitical interests at their expense, which it described as an immoral act of hegemony and bullying.