Renmin University of China (RUC) hosted the Young Leaders Roundtable on the Global South on September 25, gathering representatives from Latin America, the Caribbean, and China.

This event, part of China’s broader efforts to promote cooperation and mutual understanding among developing nations, aligned with the country’s growing focus on the “Global South” — a term referring to developing countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the South Pacific.

China’s President Xi Jinping highlighted the importance of the Global South in advancing global progress at the 70th-anniversary celebration of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. In response to this vision, RUC, as the rotating president of the Youth Diplomacy Universities Alliance, hosted the roundtable and further implemented the “Bridge to the Future” program, which aims to train 1,000 young Latin American leaders.

The roundtable featured participation from 25 young leaders and scholars from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela, along with 42 students from RUC and Latin American exchange students. Key topics included modernization of the Global South, international communication, technological innovation, and youth development.

Distinguished guests from the All-China Youth Federation, Central Youth League, and faculty from RUC’s School of International Studies delivered keynote speeches.

Professor Cui Shoujun of RUC discussed the China-Latin America Community of Shared Future, emphasizing the strong ties between China and Latin America in sectors such as food and energy. Associate Professor Xu Yanran highlighted the evolving role of South-South cooperation and the significance of China’s leadership in areas like renewable energy. Assistant Professor Jin Xiaowen focused on the cultural exchange between China and Latin America, advocating for overcoming historical and cultural barriers to foster greater inclusiveness and cooperation within the Global South.

The roundtable discussions addressed key themes such as breaking down language barriers, promoting cooperation in renewable energy, and fostering cultural exchange.

Participants concluded that cultural and artistic exchanges could serve as a common language between China and Latin America, underscoring the importance of strengthening cultural ties and deepening recognition of the China-Latin America community of shared future. The event marked a significant step in fostering stronger political, economic, and cultural relations between Global South countries.