Xi Calls for Closer Alignment of China–Ecuador Development Strategies, Expansion of Cooperation into New Sectors

Dragon Media News Desk

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on China and Ecuador to further strengthen the alignment of their development strategies and effectively implement their cooperation plan for jointly building the Belt and Road.

During talks with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday, Xi said the two countries should advance cooperation projects in energy, minerals, infrastructure and finance, while exploring new areas including the digital economy, green development, new energy and artificial intelligence.

Noboa is on a state visit to China from August 16 to 23 at Xi’s invitation.

Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China–Ecuador comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi said China has consistently viewed bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective regardless of changes in the international environment.

He said China is ready to expand exchanges between the two countries’ governments, legislatures and political parties, while strengthening the sharing of experience in governance and development.

Xi also called for greater efforts to unlock the potential of the China–Ecuador Free Trade Agreement so that its benefits can reach more businesses and consumers.

He said China is willing to deepen cooperation with Ecuador in healthcare, poverty reduction, disaster prevention and risk mitigation in support of the country’s development.

President Noboa described China as an important partner and friend of Ecuador, saying bilateral relations had entered a new stage.

He said Ecuador is willing to further strengthen political mutual trust with China. Noboa also expressed support for China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity and said Ecuador respects China’s position on the Taiwan question.

Noboa called for expanded mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, finance, minerals, renewable energy, science and technology, culture and other areas.

He said Ecuador wants to increase exports to China and welcomes more Chinese companies to invest and conduct business in the country.

The two leaders also exchanged views on developments in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Xi said Latin American countries should be able to independently choose their foreign partners in accordance with their national interests. He stressed that Latin America and the Caribbean should remain a zone of peace and that external interference should not disrupt the region’s development and revitalisation.

Following the talks, Xi and Noboa attended a signing ceremony for multiple cooperation agreements covering green industry, economic and trade cooperation, the digital economy and people’s livelihoods.

Before the talks, Xi hosted an official welcoming ceremony for Noboa at the Great Hall of the People. A state banquet was also held in his honour later in the evening.