On October 25, 2023, in the Chinese capital city of Beijing, Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego and Chinese President Xi Jinping held several transformative discussions, aiming at solidifying the bilateral ties between their respective nations. The event marked a significant milestone in Colombia-China relations, symbolizing not just an extension of partnership but also a bold move which realigns Colombia away from its traditional role as one of the closest allies of the USA in the region.

Key Outcomes

During Gustavo Petro’s official visit to China, both nations signed 12 agreements. These agreements, which spanned diverse sectors, exemplified the dynamic partnership between the two countries:

• Sanitary Agreements: Protocols were established for the export of Colombian beef, banana, quinoa, and avocado to China.
• Scientific Exchange: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to foster the exchange of young scientists between the two countries.
• Trade and Economic Cooperation: MoUs were signed between the Commerce Ministries of both nations, aiming to grow trade and economic cooperation.
• Agricultural and Educational Collaboration: A joint action plan was established to boost agricultural cooperation and an educational collaboration for the years 2023-2028.
• Strengthening Industrial and Digital Economies: MoUs were signed to fortify ties in the industrial sector, ecological investment, and the digital economy.
• Cultural Cooperation: An agreement was reached to enhance cultural cooperation from 2023 to 2027.
• Media Ties: A collaboration was solidified between China’s Media Group and Colombia’s National Radio Television (RTVC).
• Chinese Support in Colombia: China’s pledge to support the post-conflict and peace-building processes in Colombia was formalized.
• Health Cooperation: Both countries recognized the importance of strengthening health cooperation, particularly in the face of the global pandemic.

The Biggest Challenge Ahead

Despite the promising announcements, Colombia and China face an imbalance in their trade relations. As Petro pointed out during his meeting with Xi, there exists a significant trade deficit, highlighting the pressing need for equitable economic ties. Additionally, while Chinese imports from Colombia have increased notably, making China Colombia’s second-largest trading partner, there’s still ample room for improvement. Petro stressed the potential to boost Colombian exports to China, an avenue that can indeed redefine their economic relations.

Colombia’s New Geopolitical Position in a Multipolar World

In the currently quickly evolving multipolar world order, Colombia is carving a distinct space for itself, showcasing its willingness to engage with new partners, like Africa, and embrace diversified strategic alliances. Colombia’s proactive move to align with China’s Belt and Road Initiative is emblematic of this shift, evidencing a desire to not only benefit from infrastructure and economic cooperation but also to integrate more deeply into the global network of emerging powers. Its strategic location in the heart of the Americas offers it unique leverage in the balance of global dynamics, further bolstered by President Petro’s active advocacy on pressing global issues like climate change and decarbonization.

Petro’s leadership also underscores the rising protagonism of the Global South in contemporary geopolitics. The Global South, comprising predominantly of developing nations, is increasingly shaping the narratives and decisions on the international stage. As a visible speaker and advocate for the concerns and potentials of these nations, Petro is positioning Colombia as a torchbearer for the region, championing issues that resonate globally, including the Palestinian cause.

Additionally, while Colombia’s historical ties with the U.S. remain significant, its burgeoning relationship with China suggests a confident stride towards a more autonomous and diversified foreign policy. This signifies Colombia’s desire to ensure its interests are balanced and well-represented in a world where power dynamics are continually shifting and where the importance of multipolarity cannot be overstated.

President Petro’s astute foreign policy maneuvers are notably paying dividends. Garnering attention and deepening ties with global powerhouses like the USA, Europe, and now China, underscores Colombia’s evolving international significance. These relationships, built not just on the foundation of commerce and economic progress but also on the shared goal of combating climate change, indicate a promising trajectory for Colombia on the global stage. The recent encounter between China and Colombia sets a crucial precedent leading up to the Summit of Leaders of the Alliance for Economic Prosperity of the Americas scheduled for November fourth at the White House. This summit is anticipated to be a pivotal moment where the US will seek to recalibrate and reinvigorate its relationships with its neighbors, further emphasizing the strategic importance of Colombia’s positioning in global geopolitics.