The visit of President Boluarte to China and its implications for Peru

The recent news of the acceptance of the invitation for President Boluarte to make a State visit to China has generated various opinions and reflections in the political and economic sphere of Peru. This official trip should not come as a surprise, considering that since 2005, all Peruvian presidents have made visits to China, with the exception of Sagasti and Castillo. Representing the country on the international stage is a duty of the president, and ensuring a stable and predictable foreign policy is essential to improve the country's image and promote its development through international cooperation. The bilateral relationship between China and Peru has been strengthened over the years, marking important milestones such as the Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2008 during President Alan García's administration. This agreement has laid the groundwork for closer cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, science, technology, and culture, and has been continued by subsequent presidents. The relationship with China has become one of the few consistent state policies in the country, despite changes in government and political instability. The upcoming APEC leaders' meeting in November, where President Xi Jinping's visit to Peru is expected to inaugurate the first stage of the Chancay Megaport, represents an opportunity to reinforce the bilateral relationship and establish more precise objectives in terms of economic cooperation. It is essential to diversify the range of products that Peru exports to China, as well as to address issues such as the mutual recognition of sanitary and phytosanitary authorities to facilitate access to both markets. The Peruvian government must outline clear policy lines for the country's development, promoting investment in infrastructure and technological advancements in telecommunications and other services. It is crucial to strengthen Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and attract serious investments to foster development in all regions of the country, not just in Lima. Limiting counter-reforms in education and returning to educational meritocracy are necessary steps to generate the human capital required for the 21st century. Improving the quality of public spending and ensuring that foreign investments contribute to improving the quality of life for Peruvians are key objectives for the country's future. It is necessary for the investments we attract from China and other countries to translate into tangible benefits for the population, and to promote equitable and sustainable development in all regions of Peru. President Boluarte's visit to China is an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and establish commitments that will drive development and cooperation between both countries.