On April 11, 2024, the Inter-American Dialogue partnered with Brazil-China Business Council (CEBC) to hold the joint event “New Infrastructure—Emerging Trends in Chinese Investment in Latin America,” which centered around the prospect and impact of China investment in LAC and specifically in Brazil, as well as the LAC region’s approach to fielding opportunities and risks associated with Chinese engagement.
On April 12, the Inter-American Dialogue, in partnership with the Latin America Program at the Wilson Center, hosted a conversation with the current Minister of Finance and Public Credit of Colombia, Alberto Carrasquilla.
Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono visited Latin America Aug. 11-19, with stops in Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Mexico. Kono’s priorities during the trip were strengthening economic cooperation and trade ties with the region, particularly the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and seeking support on diplomatic issues, including those related to North Korea, NHK reported. What did he accomplish during his tour? Where are Japan-Latin America relations headed? Does Japan have a clear and coherent strategy in Latin America? Which sectors and countries in the region are of greatest importance for Japan, and what is driving that interest?
While the Trump administration’s “America first” policies are aimed primarily at giving higher priority to national security and economic growth for the United States, the White House’s approach will have impacts on energy relations with the rest of the hemisphere that should also be considered.
Cuts to Washington’s energy engagement could undermine the connections that help support U.S.–Latin American cooperation on issues from security to immigration. When it comes to weakening energy integration in the Americas, there are few winners.
The collapse in global oil prices has led to a steep decline in investment in Colombia’s hydrocarbons sector and reduced the value of its oil exports, depleting a key source of government revenue.
Conflicts over energy and natural resources are leading to social turmoil and posing serious challenges for investment projects all over Latin America.
