China responded to statements by the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, defending its investments in Peru. The Chinese government stated that its investments in the South American country are "in compliance with the law".
Beijing also argued that these investments bring "development opportunities" for Peru, opposing the position defended by Rubio. The US Secretary of State had expressed his contrary opinion regarding Chinese investments in the region.
This diplomatic tug-of-war occurs in the context of growing competition between the United States and China for influence in Latin America. The two countries have vied for investments and trade relations in the region, with Washington expressing concerns about the growing Chinese economic presence.
