China – Latin America Forum: Perspectives and Debates
DATE: April 23–24, 2025 | VENUE: FLACSO Ecuador and Universidad San Francisco de Quito
This forum will provide both in-person and virtual platforms designed to facilitate robust discussions and the sharing of knowledge on the complex relations between China and the Andean Region. It will also offer technical support and capacity-building opportunities through workshops and training sessions led by renowned experts.
Panelists will present cutting-edge research and insights while conducting practical sessions on key dimensions such as the economy, politics, sociocultural dynamics, and human rights.
Objective and Expected Scope
The Andean Region of South America has historically depended on the export of commodities such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products, resulting in economic fluctuations driven by global price changes. Additionally, the region has relied on foreign technology and imports of manufactured goods. Over the past three decades, China has emerged as a key player, investing in infrastructure and resource extraction, becoming a technology provider and major trade partner. This involvement has reshaped political, social, and economic dynamics, creating both growth opportunities and new dependencies.
The forum “China–Latin America: Perspectives and Debates” will delve into these contemporary dynamics, bringing together leading scholars, business leaders, diplomats, and government representatives.
Through workshops, technical training sessions, and expert roundtables, the forum aims to:
- Assess the impact of China’s domestic governance, foreign policy objectives, and global actions on democracy, institutions, and legislation in Latin America.
- Promote informed, strategic, and collective action through critical analysis of China’s influence in Latin America, with particular focus on the Andean Region.
- Foster deeper understanding of China’s economic, technological, and political strategies in the Andean Region.
- Explore how Andean countries can maximize the benefits of Chinese engagement while addressing the challenges associated with its growing influence.
Key Objectives
Develop and enhance competencies: Equip participants to critically assess the impact of China’s activities in Latin America.
Facilitate dialogue and research: Organize platforms for interdisciplinary discussions and long-term research initiatives on China’s role in the region.
Establish a network of specialists: Create a network of experts to provide ongoing analysis and insights into China’s activities in Latin America.
Organizers
This forum is co-organized by FLACSO Ecuador, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) – Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies on Inequalities (IEAD), and the Asian Studies Group – and the Andrés Bello Foundation (ABF) – China–Latin America Research Center.
With the support of:
