Strengthening Ties: Wang Yi and Celinda Sosa Lunda Discuss Bolivia-China Relations
Wang Yi met with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda at the U.N. on February 18, 2025, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on cooperation in economic and strategic areas. Both emphasized the importance of investments and support for Bolivia’s international role. Significant historical anniversaries were noted, with a commitment to further collaboration under international frameworks.
On February 18, 2025, in a meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda. During the meeting, Wang Yi reflected on the fruitful meeting that took place in November between President Xi Jinping and President Luis Arce, which bolstered mutual trust and set the trajectory for the bilateral relationship. He noted that 2025 marks two significant anniversaries: the 40th year of diplomatic relations between China and Bolivia and the 200th anniversary of Bolivia’s independence.
Wang Yi expressed China’s readiness to work alongside Bolivia to enhance cooperation and elevate the strategic partnership. He affirmed support for Chinese enterprises looking to invest in Bolivia, contributing to its development and improving the livelihoods of its people. Additionally, he congratulated Bolivia on becoming a BRICS partner country and reiterated China’s support for Bolivia’s increased role in international and regional matters.
Emphasizing the importance of sovereignty, Wang Yi stated that Latin America should not be treated as any country’s backyard. He expressed China’s commitment to being a steadfast ally to Latin America, pledging support for the region’s dignity and rights. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, and China intends to collaborate with Bolivia and other Latin American nations to advance plans for future cooperation.
Celinda Sosa Lunda articulated Bolivia’s strong partnership with China, acknowledging the successful meeting between the two leaders that propelled bilateral cooperation in various sectors. She highlighted the significant potential for Bolivia-China collaboration, welcoming increased Chinese investment in her country for mutual gains. Sosa expressed gratitude for China’s support in empowering Bolivia’s independent development and enhancing its international stature, noting that Bolivia prioritizes its diplomatic relations with China and adheres firmly to the one-China principle. Both nations, as committed members of the Global South, aim to further expand their collaboration through frameworks such as the China-CELAC Forum and BRICS.
The meeting between Wang Yi and Celinda Sosa Lunda underscored the strengthening ties between China and Bolivia, marked by mutual respect and shared goals for development. With significant historical anniversaries this year, both parties expressed a commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors and solidifying their partnership on international platforms. China’s support for Bolivia’s development and international role is likewise complemented by Bolivia’s dedication to deepening its strategic relationship with China, ultimately aiming for mutual progress and benefit.
Original Source: www.fmprc.gov.cn
