UN official urges LatAm to make most of China's Belt and Road Initiative

TIME FOR JOINT INVESTMENT

The second China-CELAC Forum serves to update the relationship between the two sides in light of China's new role in global affairs.

"Conditions have changed in the past three years. China has transformed into a more important political player in multilateral aspects," Barcena said, noting that China is committed to climate change policies and environment protection, as well as changing its consumption structure.

"That opens opportunities for Latin America," she said, urging for joint investment in Latin America.

"I would say the time has come for joint investment.The time has come for our negotiators and business leaders to take a seat at the table and jointly invest in Latin America's energy, mining, science, technology and digital sectors," said the ECLAC's chief.

As to where to begin this joint investment, Barcena said that there are several areas in which they could launch important businesses.

"China has increased its foreign direct investment in Brazil in a very concrete field, electricity. I think joint investment in solar energy here in Latin America would be ideal. Perhaps Chile could become the exporting hub for Chinese-Chilean solar energy products," she said.

"Agriculture is another great area" for joint investment, said Barcena.