Boric promotes investment dialogue with Chinese firms during Beijing visit

Karla Flores, the Director of InvestChile, and Foreign Affairs Minister Alberto van Klaveren engaged with over 30 representatives from Chinese companies during a business meeting in Beijing. This event was part of President Gabriel Boric's visit to Asia for the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum.

The "InvestChile Talks: Investment Dialogue" was chaired by Minister van Klaveren and moderated by Catalina Pérez, InvestChile’s investment attaché in Asia. It occurred within the Chile-China Business Meeting framework, led by President Boric and organized by InvestChile and ProChile.

President Boric addressed more than 100 local companies and authorities at the event's opening. He stated, “Chile maintains its deep conviction that the way forward is to build bridges and expand our relationships around the globe. In this, China is a fundamental partner.” He further emphasized collaboration between Chile and China on global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation.

Minister van Klaveren highlighted Chile's attributes as a business partner, stating, “our commitment is clear: to move towards an open, modern and sustainable economy that not only seeks to export products but also to convey our values, principles and culture.” He expressed interest in foreign investments that align with Chile’s vision for development.

Director Flores provided an economic overview of Chile, emphasizing foreign investment's role in strategic sectors like renewable energy generation, electricity transmission, public infrastructure, critical minerals, technology, and science. She noted that Chinese companies have significantly contributed to these areas.

Chinese investment in Chile has grown substantially since 2016 when InvestChile managed five projects valued at US$310 million. Last year saw 17 projects valued at nearly US$4 billion from Chinese companies under management by InvestChile.

The presidential tour concludes tomorrow with protocol events in Beijing, including a meeting between President Boric and Chinese President Xi Jinping.