Overview
- The CELAC summit in Honduras brought together 11 Latin American heads of state, including leaders from Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, to address US-imposed tariffs and their economic impact.
- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva criticized the US tariffs as 'arbitrary' and warned that trade wars destabilize the global economy without winners.
- Host President Xiomara Castro emphasized the need for regional unity, stating that the US is redrawing its economic map without considering the impact on Latin American populations.
- China's growing presence was highlighted through bilateral meetings with CELAC delegates and plans for a China-CELAC ministerial conference in May, signaling its intent to strengthen ties in the region.
- Regional leaders, including Mexico's Claudia Sheinbaum and Colombia's Gustavo Petro, stressed the importance of market diversification, mutual support, and deeper regional integration to navigate global trade uncertainties.