Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi kicks off a pivotal state visit to China tomorrow, February 1, aiming to supercharge bilateral cooperation under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) while celebrating 38 years of diplomatic ties. The week-long trip, ending February 7, comes as both nations push to transform their economic partnership into a blueprint for South-South collaboration. 💼✨
From Soybeans to EVs: A Trade Revolution
What started as modest $124M trade in 1988 has exploded into a $6.59B powerhouse by 2024 – and it’s not just about Uruguay’s famed soybeans anymore. 🌱➡️🚗 Chinese new energy vehicles now dominate 33% of Uruguay’s auto market, while Montevideo eyes expanded access for beef, dairy, and tech exports. 'Every cooperation adds a new brick to our friendship’s edifice,' Orsi told Xinhua ahead of his visit.
Multilateral Momentum
2026 isn’t just another year for Uruguay – it’s holding a triple chairmanship of G77+China, CELAC, and Mercosur. 🏛️ Orsi plans to leverage these roles to boost China-Latin America ties, aligning with Beijing’s 2025 policy paper envisioning a 'shared future' with the region. With 60+ cooperation deals expected, watch for green energy and digital economy pacts to steal the spotlight. 🌐
38 Years Young
As Ambassador Huang Yazhong notes, this relationship defies the 'size matters' stereotype – proving a small nation and a global power can craft win-win partnerships. 🤝 With Uruguay now China’s gateway to Mercosur’s 295M-consumer market, this visit could redefine how middle powers engage with Beijing’s global vision.
