On April 9, 2025, the 9th Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) was held in Honduras, the rotating presidency. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a Message of Congratulations to the summit. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I wish to extend my warm congratulations on the opening of the Ninth Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).
In today’s world, where transformation unseen in a century is accelerating, the Global South, including China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries, is gaining momentum. Committed to pursuing independence and seeking self-strength through Unity, CELAC has played an important role in safeguarding regional peace and stability, promoting development and cooperation, and advancing regional integration. It is my sincere hope that LAC countries and peoples will make even greater strides on the path of development and revitalization, and contribute more to enhancing solidarity and coordination among the Global South.
China- LAC relations, having stood the test of changing international dynamics, have entered a new stage that features equality, mutual benefit, innovation, openness, and benefits for the people. Our two sides enjoy deepening political trust, expanding practical cooperation, and closer people-to-people exchanges, bringing benefits to the peoples of both sides and setting a good example of South- South cooperation. China is ready to work with LAC countries for greater progress in building the China-LAC community with a shared future.
This May, China will host the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing. We welcome CELAC member states to attend the meeting to jointly plan for our development and cooperation and contribute our wisdom and strength to tackle global challenges, advance global governance reform, and safeguard world peace and stability.
I wish this CELAC Summit full success.