The Chinese government has strongly condemned recent remarks made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accusing him of “baseless finger-pointing” at China’s growing influence in Latin America. Rubio, who has been outspoken on the geopolitical strategies of the U.S., suggested that China’s presence in the region posed a threat to both economic stability and regional security.
In a statement issued by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, China responded, calling Rubio’s comments “discriminatory” and “unfounded.” The Chinese government emphasized that its investments in Latin America were based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared economic interests, dismissing claims of interference or ulterior motives.
“China firmly opposes any form of interference in the internal affairs of other sovereign nations. We have always adhered to the principles of equality, mutual benefit, and non-intervention in our dealings with Latin America,” the statement read. It further reiterated that China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has seen extensive infrastructure projects across the region, was solely aimed at promoting economic growth and development.
Rubio’s statements came as part of a broader U.S. foreign policy initiative to counter China’s expanding footprint in the Americas, which the U.S. has historically viewed as its own sphere of influence. During a speech earlier this week, Rubio raised concerns over the growing Chinese economic presence in countries such as Venezuela, Ecuador, and Argentina. He argued that Beijing’s growing investments and political engagements in the region were undermining U.S. alliances and could potentially lead to Chinese control over strategic resources.
The U.S. Secretary of State’s criticism of China’s involvement in Latin America has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from Latin American leaders who value the economic support provided by Beijing. Some have expressed their gratitude for China’s contributions to local infrastructure, energy, and technological sectors, while others have defended their right to independently pursue partnerships with any country that aligns with their national interests.
In response to Rubio’s comments, Chinese officials have pointed to the U.S.’s own history of intervention in the region, referring to it as a “legacy of hegemonic practices.” They argue that Washington’s portrayal of China as a disruptive force in Latin America ignores the long-standing economic and political imbalances historically imposed by the U.S. on the region.
“We believe that all countries in Latin America have the right to choose their partners based on their own national interests and the will of their people,” China’s foreign ministry spokesman added, calling for a more balanced and equitable approach to international relations in the Western Hemisphere.
While tensions between China and the U.S. over global influence continue to rise, the situation in Latin America remains a critical focal point. Experts suggest that China’s economic initiatives, especially in the areas of infrastructure development and trade, are not only strengthening its position in the region but also reshaping the geopolitical landscape, challenging traditional spheres of influence.
As the U.S. seeks to reassess its approach to Latin America amid increasing competition from China, the coming months could see a heightened diplomatic exchange between the two powers as they continue to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving global order.
source: news.cgtn.com