Interview: Chinese President's visit to Peru will have regional impact: Peruvian expert

The upcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Peru in November will have a major impact across the region as it certifies Latin America is a priority for China, said a Peruvian expert.

"It reflects the relevance China gives its ties to Latin America. Our region is a priority for China and Latin America sees this as a prime opportunity," said Miguel Rodriguez, an international analyst, in an interview with Xinhua.

"The Chinese act with blistering speed, knowing that time counts in international relations. China knows how to win over the world."

"China knows a region is a gold mine, and always has been. Latin America is growing as never before, which is why China is seeking to accentuate commercial ties. Linked to this is the Chinese goal to diversify its exports. Therefore, China sees it as equally important to invest in developed countries like the U.S. as in growing economies in Latin America."

"China and Peru are enjoying one of their best moments. President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski chose China as his first international trip as head of state, showing that China is a priority in the foreign policy of Peru's new government."

"This level of reciprocity will be consolidated during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, where President Xi Jinping will come."

In terms of Chile and Ecuador, which Xi will also visit, "China sees all Latin American countries as important. Chile and Ecuador are other geopolitical focus points in China's proposal to link the Pacific and the Atlantic. It will seek the best of relations with these countries."

"Latin America is not just interested in developing commercial ties. The region is also interested in Chinese technology in order to spur development and industrialization."

"President Kuczynski said that he did not go to China to ask for loans but to ask for investments and technology going forward. This focus is crucial to achieve reciprocity." Enditem