Latin America-China Relations: What to Expect in 2021

WATCH: Deborah M. Lehr speaks about the present and future of Latin America-China relations at an Atlantic Council panel discussion.

"China has definitely slowed down their financing along the Belt and Road. But they are looking to be more strategic in their BRI investments, and Latin America will be one of the regions where they continue to invest." — Deborah M. Lehr, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of the Paulson Institute

On Thursday, December 17, PI Vice Chairman and Executive Director Deborah M. Lehr delivered the concluding keynote address at Latin America-China Relations in 2021: Opportunities, Risks, and Recommendations, a public event hosted by the Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center of the Atlantic Council. Lehr discussed China's current economic agenda, at home and abroad, and how Latin America might benefit, as well as face challenges.

"There will be opportunities for exporting to China from Latin America as it focuses on energizing domestic consumption. Latin America will also be a priority region for Chinese exports, including technology, which tends to be better suited to emerging markets and competitively priced." 

Lehr assessed how Latin America-China relations might evolve in 2021 and added that the Biden-Harris administration will need to "find a new policy and framework with China…in the context of the United States' new position globally." She also spoke about the opportunities for Latin America to collaborate with China, particularly in the green development and sustainability space.

Watch the full panel discussion and Deborah M. Lehr's closing keynote:

Deborah M. Lehr delivered closing keynote remarks on the present and future of Latin America-China relations.

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