As world leaders convene in South America for pivotal summits, the possible return of Donald Trump to the White House casts a shadow over global diplomatic agendas. With the former president’s “America First” approach poised to disrupt economic alliances and security dynamics, leaders attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Peru and the G20 in Brazil are carefully assessing how a Trump administration could impact their strategies.
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Peru ahead of the APEC summit, underscoring China’s growing influence in Latin America with the inauguration of a $3.5 billion megaport, funded by Chinese conglomerate COSCO Shipping. The port, north of Lima, aims to strengthen trade between Latin America and Asia, presenting China as a reliable partner to developing nations. Xi’s state visit highlights China’s intention to step in as a stabilizing force amid rising geopolitical uncertainties.
Beijing’s strategy includes fostering ties with U.S. allies as Xi seeks to counteract the tense trade and technology policies introduced by Trump in his first term and continued under President Biden. Trump's proposals to impose steep tariffs on Chinese goods, appoint “China hawks” to key positions, and isolate China from advanced technologies have prompted Beijing to reinforce diplomatic connections elsewhere, including easing visa restrictions for European nations and renewing cooperation with Asian neighbors.
The summits offer Xi an opportunity to position China as a champion of stability, a message he is expected to convey directly to Biden during their planned meeting in Lima. With global markets anxious over a potential rise in U.S.-China tensions, Xi will likely emphasize China’s readiness for cooperation and commitment to peace, while warning against a return to confrontation.
China’s stance reflects its vision for a multipolar world less dependent on U.S. influence, particularly in the Global South where China’s Belt and Road Initiative has bolstered its reach. While China’s assertive moves in the South China Sea and alignment with Russia remain points of concern for many nations, some observers believe the unpredictability of a Trump-led U.S. might push nations to engage more closely with Beijing.
The meetings in Lima and Rio de Janeiro may reveal early signs of how the world’s largest economies plan to navigate a potentially disruptive shift in U.S. foreign policy. For now, Beijing is balancing its aspirations for global leadership with caution, mindful of the economic risks of escalating friction with a Trump-led United States.