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RFI interviewed Pamela Aróstica, director of the China and Latin America Network (REDCAM) on the occasion of the start of the XX Congress of the Chinese Communist Party. The rise of Beijing’s soft power in Latin America is “one of the most important developments in the region in recent years,” she says.
RFI Is it true that there is an increase in the so-called ‘soft power’ or diplomatic influence of China in Latin America?
The presence and influence of China through ‘soft-power’ in the region is becoming one of the most important events in recent Latin American history. There is a turning point from 20 years ago to date. But this phenomenon has intensified strongly in the last 10 years. This occurs in a context of a greater struggle between China and the United States to position itself as a superpower.
RFI. What tools does China use in this process?
One of the fundamental axes are the Confucius Institutes. Not only is Chinese taught there, but their mission is also to deepen cultural relations with different countries. We also see that there are plans for teaching Mandarin Chinese in schools and twinning between Latin American and Chinese cities. In Latin American media we see entire pages dedicated to China, paid for by the Chinese government.
RFI. What is the OBJETIVE? Is it influencing the local culture?
The objective is not to change the local culture, but to change the perceptions of Latin Americans regarding China. And that the perceptions, of course, are positive. Therefore, a key point is also cooperation at the government level, political parties, cultural organizations, colleges and universities. Also important in this soft influence is the role played by the Chinese communities installed in the different countries, which have grown exponentially in the last 10 years.
