China's Expansion Into The Western Hemisphere: Implications For Latin America And The United States

With President Hu Jintaos November 2004 visit to Latin America, China signaled to the rest of the world its growing interest in the region. Many observers welcome this development, highlighting the benefits of increased trade and investment, as well as diplomatic cooperation, for both sides. But other analysts have raised concerns about the relationships impact on Latin American competitiveness and its implications for U.S. influence in Washingtons traditional backyard. In China's Expansion into the Western Hemisphere, experts from Latin America, China, and the United States, as well as Europe, analyze the history of this triangular relationship and the motivations of each of the major players.