Special mention should be made of SELA's work at the regional level, contributing to the areas of economic and social development, digitalisation, infrastructure, as well as important aspects of cooperation and training for the countries that are part of the SELA membership.

However, SELA should not focus exclusively on intra-regional relations, but also assist in the relations of the region with other regions and countries that are an important part of the economic development of Latin America and the Caribbean. In this connection, important experiences have already been gained, such as the panel "Experiences and opportunities for LAC-China cooperation: Towards the internationalization of SMEs in the region", which was held in Mexico City on 30 May 2018 and was organized by the Permanent Secretariat of the Latin American and Caribbean Economic System (SELA) within the framework of the IV LAC-China International Seminar, hosted by the Autonomous University of Mexico, with the support of CAF-Development Bank of Latin America.

In this regard, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the following topics: i) the characteristics of success of Chinese SMEs; ii) export promotion strategies addressed in Argentina and Uruguay; iii) projections and data of interest on Chinese demand for Latin American products; iv) the role of the public sector in strengthening the export capacity of SMEs; and v) a diagnosis of the competitiveness of SMEs in the development of the New Silk Road.

Furthermore, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) have held forums to discuss the relationship between the Latin American and Caribbean region and the Asian giant; however, this has mainly focused on the area of cooperation.

Description

In a globalised world, where, on the one hand, China is a key player in economic development, international trade, and investment, and on the other, Latin America and the Caribbean is one of the regions with the greatest potential in terms of biodiversity, energy potential, natural, mineral and oil wealth, as well as a world reserve of fresh water and the lungs of the world. Likewise, in terms of the new environmental and energy scenario, the Latin American region is fundamental to achieving global objectives, for which the relationship with China is fundamental.

In an ever-changing global landscape, it is crucial for nations to foster cooperative relations and constructive dialogue, transcending geographical boundaries. In this spirit, we propose the establishment of the "China-Latin America and Caribbean Forum", a platform aimed at forging stronger ties between the People's Republic of China and the nations of Latin America and the Caribbean. This concept note outlines the objectives, focus areas and benefits of this forum, as well as cooperation.

Focus areas:

The Latin America and the Caribbean-China Development Forum will focus on the following key areas:

Trade and investment: facilitate trade agreements, investment partnerships and market access for products and services.

Infrastructure and connectivity: promote infrastructure projects, such as roads, ports and digital infrastructure, to strengthen regional connectivity.

Environmental sustainability: collaborate on projects for sustainable development, climate change adaptation and environmental conservation.

Benefits:

Mutual benefits: the focus is on creating mutually beneficial opportunities. Latin American and Caribbean countries can access the vast Chinese market, while China can invest in and benefit from the resources and markets of these regions. The China-Latin America and Caribbean Forum offers numerous advantages to the participating nations, including:

• Trade and investment: the main economic objective is to boost trade and investment between China and Latin American and Caribbean nations. This will involve the negotiation and implementation of trade agreements that reduce barriers, tariffs and promote the exchange of goods and services. These actions result in increased trade and investment opportunities that can stimulate economic growth and job creation.
• Improved infrastructure: infrastructure development can boost regional connectivity, facilitating the movement of goods and people. Infrastructure projects aim to improve regional connectivity by investing in roads, ports, digital infrastructure and other critical transport and communication networks. Improved infrastructure will not only facilitate trade but will also lead to economic development and job creation.
• Sustainable practices: sustainability is a key consideration in infrastructure development. Collaborative efforts will focus on environmentally responsible construction, addressing issues such as climate resilience and low carbon infrastructure. In this regard, resilient environmental management is established with collaborative environmental efforts that can mitigate climate change and promote sustainability.
• Academic exchange and joint research development: it will allow the sharing of best practices and knowledge regarding technological development in strategic areas for the region.

Sustainable development: 

Environmental protection: the forum recognises the global challenge of environmental degradation and climate change. Participating nations will collaborate on environmental protection initiatives, sharing best practices and technologies for sustainable development.

Common challenges: Latin America, the Caribbean and China often face similar environmental challenges, such as disasters caused by natural phenomena and pollution. Joint efforts can address these issues more effectively.

These objectives are designed to create a multi-faceted partnership that goes beyond mere economic interests. It aims to foster a holistic and sustainable relationship between China, Latin America and the Caribbean, addressing various challenges and seizing opportunities for growth and development.

In conclusion, the proposed China-Latin America and Caribbean Forum represents an opportunity to strengthen ties and foster cooperation among nations with diverse backgrounds and interests. Working together, we can address common challenges and seize shared opportunities for a more prosperous and sustainable future.

A face-to-face event, with two parts comprising:

• A presentation by experts on the current situation of relations between Latin America and the Caribbean and China, identifying the strengths and opportunities for both parties. Each side will be able to make a presentation on its perspective on the strengthening of this relationship and comment on the opportunities identified.
• In accordance with the proposed thematic areas, establish committees or working groups to coordinate with delegates from the subregional secretariats in order to discuss lines of work for the optimal use of the relationship between China and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Identify lines of work to make the relationship between the region and China more efficient and clearer in the areas of cooperation, investment, economic and social development, and energy.

The main objective of the China-Latin America and the Caribbean Forum is to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties among the participating nations. It seeks to facilitate dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable development in key areas:

• Economic partnerships: in order to promote trade and investment between China and the nations of Latin America and the Caribbean, seeking to create mutually beneficial opportunities for all parties involved.
• Infrastructure development: foster cooperation in infrastructure development, including transport, energy, and technology, to promote regional connectivity and economic growth.
• Sustainable development: collaborate on environmental protection, climate change mitigation and sustainable practices to address common challenges faced by participating nations.
• Academic exchange and development of joint research on renewable energy.