Beijing hosts Latin American leaders

Xi blasts bullying by US, vows more aid

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Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed yesterday to deepen ties with Latin America and condemned “bullying” in a thinly veiled swipe at the United States, as he addressed regional leaders in Beijing.

Leaders and officials from Latin America and the Caribbean have descended on the Chinese capital for the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum.

Beijing has stepped up economic and political cooperation with Latin American nations in recent years and has urged a united front against US President Donald Trump's recent maelstrom of tariffs.

Latin America has emerged as a key battleground in Mr Trump's confrontation with China, and the region is coming under pressure from Washington to choose a side.

Addressing leaders yesterday, Mr Xi hailed China's burgeoning ties with the region.