国际战略研究中心-中国和萨尔瓦多：最新动态（英文）-2021.3-7页_76kb

China and El Salvador: An Update Summary

Core Content

El Salvador's recognition of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in August 2018 marked a significant shift in its diplomatic relations, following similar moves by Panama and the Dominican Republic. This decision, made under the FMLN government of Salvador Sánchez Cerén, was followed by a more assertive approach under President Nayib Bukele, who emphasized close ties with the U.S. while also engaging with the PRC. The PRC responded with substantial development promises, including infrastructure projects and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Main Points

• Diplomatic Shift: El Salvador's recognition of the PRC in 2018 was part of a broader Latin American trend, with mixed outcomes for trade and economic development.
• Trade Impact: Despite initial optimism, El Salvador's exports to China declined, while imports from China surged, indicating a net negative impact on local industries.
• Infrastructure Projects: The PRC proposed several projects, including a logistics hub at La Unión, water treatment facilities, a national library, and a tourist pier. However, progress has been slow due to political, legal, and economic challenges.
• Logistics and SEZs: The proposed special economic zones (SEZs) were intended to boost trade but raised concerns about favoring existing political allies and excluding local businesses.
• Telecommunications: Chinese firms like Huawei and ZTE have a strong presence in El Salvador's telecommunications sector, with potential for 5G expansion.
• Intellectual Infrastructure: The Confucius Institute at the University of El Salvador (UES) has been established to support language education and business ties with China, though the local business community remains limited.
• Covid-19 Response: The PRC provided limited medical aid to El Salvador during the pandemic, lacking the more advanced support seen in other countries.
• Security Engagement: Unlike other nations, El Salvador has minimal security cooperation with the PRC, with little to no military exchanges or training.

Key Information

• Initial Gifts and Promises: The PRC offered 3,000 tons of rice and $150 million in infrastructure projects under Sánchez Cerén.
• Bukele's Engagement: Bukele's 2019 state visit to China led to a $500 million development package, including a "Surf City" project and a tourist pier.
• Project Delays: Many projects were delayed due to the pandemic, and the La Unión port project faced political and legal hurdles, including Japanese non-cooperation.
• Land Acquisition: Chinese investors have been acquiring coastal land in El Salvador, including Perico Island, for potential tourism and infrastructure development.
• Future Prospects: While the PRC continues to offer investment opportunities, the Bukele government's focus on transparency and institutional development may lead to a more balanced engagement.

Conclusion

The PRC-El Salvador relationship has been marked by mixed results, with more emphasis on increasing competition than on expanding export opportunities. While the PRC has made substantial infrastructure and economic promises, many of these have stalled due to domestic and international challenges. The Bukele administration's approach offers a potential path toward more transparent and sustainable engagement with China, supported by U.S. initiatives and regional partnerships.