Latin American Leaders Open Door to Tighter China Trade Ties
LIMA, Peru -- Donald Trump's pledge to dismantle U.S. trade agreements is leading some of the closest U.S. allies in Latin America to reassess trade priorities, opening the door for China to strengthen its ties with the region.
"This is a huge moment for China," said Eric Farnsworth, vice president of the Council of the Americas and Americas Society. "I think the Chinese are anticipating getting full value out of it to be able to show that the U.S. may be taking an inward track and China is ready to welcome the world."
Representatives for Mr. Trump weren't available but in numerous comments he has said he would base his trade policies on what's best for U.S. workers, which he has signaled could mean more protectionist policies.
Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, a 78-year-old former Wall Street banker who chose to visit China on his first official trip, joked earlier this year that he would "grab a saw and cut" ties with the U.S. if Mr. Trump won. Mr. Kuczynski was more serious recently, warning about protectionism and saying he would support a Pacific trade accord that added China and Russia if the U.S. pulls out.
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