Communist Party of China Delegation Visits Peru Amid Strengthening Bilateral Relations

A delegation from the Communist Party of China, led by Ma Hui, visited Peru from Sunday to Tuesday. Ma Hui, vice minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met with Eduardo Salhuana, President of Peru’s Congress, and several leaders of major Peruvian political parties.

The delegation’s visit builds upon decades of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Peru established formal ties with China in 1875, becoming the first Latin American country to do so.

Modern diplomatic relations began in 1971, marking Peru as the third Latin American nation to recognize the People’s Republic of China. Ma delivered a speech at the International Institute of Governance, emphasizing the growing economic ties between China and Peru.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to implementing important consensus reached by their heads of state during recent high-level exchanges. The visit follows President Dina Boluarte’s state visit to China in June 2024.

During that trip, Boluarte met with President Xi Jinping and business leaders from Huawei, BYD, and COSCO Shipping Ports. China has maintained its position as Peru’s largest trading partner for ten consecutive years.

A highlight of their cooperation remains the Chancay Port project. This $1.3 billion infrastructure investment, expected to reach $3.5 billion over the next decade, symbolizes China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Peru. COSCO Shipping acquired a 60% stake in the port in 2019, signaling increased Chinese investment.

Peru and China’s Expanding Partnership

Peru and China signed a free trade agreement in 2009, which took effect in March 2010. During Xi’s November 2024 visit to Peru, both nations signed a protocol upgrading this agreement. They also pledged to expand cooperation beyond traditional sectors into digital economy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare.

Some challenges persist in the relationship. Certain Chinese mining projects in Peru face controversy due to environmental and social impacts. The Las Bambas copper mine, a flagship Chinese investment, has experienced periodic conflicts with local communities.

Despite these challenges, both nations continue to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership established in 2013, focused on mutual development goals and increased cultural exchange.