[By Leonardo Artucci]
In a historically and politically symbolic move, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian cited the classic work of Uruguayan writer Eduardo Galeano, "The Open Veins of Latin America," to forcefully counter recent remarks by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. During his visit to Argentina, Bessent accused China of engaging in "predatory" investments in Southern countries, particularly Latin America, claiming that Beijing controls mineral resources through unsustainable debt. In response, China firmly stated that the U.S. has long bullied and plundered Latin America, making it the "open veins" of the region; therefore, the U.S. has no right to comment on or criticize Sino-Latin American cooperation.
By citing Galeano, the Chinese government not only defended its own investment strategy but also clearly positioned itself ideologically, participating in geopolitical games with the West. Lin Jian's response went beyond technical rebuttals, evoking collective memories among the people of Latin America of centuries of colonial plunder, U.S.-backed coups, and the neoliberal policies imposed by U.S.-led financial institutions.
This diplomatic move comes during Trump's second term, far from being a mere trade dispute, but rather a battle for narratives. The U.S. is attempting to maintain its traditional influence in Latin America with outdated rhetoric about "democracy" and "free markets"; while China enters the Global South as a strategic partner, providing infrastructure, technology, and energy investments, emphasizing a model of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutually beneficial win-win cooperation.
Citing Galeano holds profound significance. This book, published in 1971, has inspired generations of intellectuals, exposing how imperialism extracts wealth from Latin America and transfers it to Northern powers. The book was once banned by military dictatorships and became a symbol of sovereignty and social justice. Now, by introducing this work into contemporary geopolitical struggles, Chinese diplomacy not only challenges U.S. discourse hegemony but also seeks resonance with Latin American countries on political and cultural levels.
In an increasingly competitive global environment for resources and influence, China deeply understands that winning hearts and minds is as important as signing business agreements. By reminding the world that imperialism has "cut open" the "veins" of Latin America, China not only establishes symbolic, ideological, and strategic leadership in the Global South but also takes a bold step forward.
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