China has strongly condemned the remarks made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his recent visit to Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Rubio, who toured Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic from February 1 to 6, claimed that the U.S. aims to “counter the influence of the Chinese Communist Party” in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry responded on Friday, rejecting these accusations as unfounded and rooted in Cold War-era ideological bias.
According to a spokesperson from China’s Foreign Ministry, Rubio’s comments were intended to sow discord between China and LAC nations. The spokesperson emphasized that China-LAC relations are based on mutual respect, equality, and win-win cooperation, with no hidden political agendas. China firmly opposes external interference in its partnerships with these nations and has lodged official protests with the U.S. government regarding Rubio’s statements.
China has significantly expanded its economic and technological cooperation with Latin America in recent years. Investments in infrastructure, trade, and digital connectivity—including 5G technology—have strengthened its ties with the region. The spokesperson stated that these partnerships are driven by mutual benefit and do not target any third party, countering U.S. claims that China is exerting undue influence.
Addressing cybersecurity concerns, the spokesperson highlighted China’s commitment to safeguarding global cybersecurity. Chinese firms, particularly in the telecommunications sector, have played a pivotal role in advancing secure and efficient services. The spokesperson dismissed U.S. allegations that China’s involvement in digital infrastructure poses security risks, arguing that such accusations aim to suppress Chinese technological progress rather than ensure security.
The Taiwan issue was also addressed in China’s response. The spokesperson reaffirmed China’s stance that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory and emphasized that the one-China principle is widely recognized, with 183 countries maintaining diplomatic ties with Beijing. The spokesperson criticized the U.S. for interfering in what China considers a domestic matter.
China reiterated that its cooperation with Latin America is built on genuine development goals rather than geopolitical rivalry. The spokesperson asserted that U.S. attempts to disrupt these relations would fail, as the partnership between China and LAC nations is based on shared interests and long-term collaboration. The growing relationship between China and Latin America, the spokesperson concluded, is irreversible and will continue to strengthen despite external pressures.
