Chinese President Xi Jinping used his meeting with Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi in Beijing today to promote the idea of a “multipolar world” where nations are treated as equals — a message widely seen as a subtle criticism of the United States’ dominant role in global affairs.
The discussion comes at a moment of heightened international tension, especially after the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces — an action China strongly condemned as an infringement on national sovereignty.
During their talks, Xi said the world is facing “complex challenges” and called out “unilateral bullying” — language many analysts interpret as a reference to U.S. policies. He emphasized China’s desire to work with Uruguay and other countries in the Global South to build a global order that is fairer and more balanced, and to support economic cooperation that benefits all nations, not just the powerful ones.
Orsi also acknowledged the uncertain international climate and reiterated Uruguay’s interest in deepening ties with China — a relationship that has grown steadily in recent years. China is now Uruguay’s largest trading partner and biggest market for key exports like soybeans and beef. Chinese electric vehicles have also become highly popular in Uruguay, making up nearly a third of all EV sales last year.
Both leaders expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in areas such as science, technology, environmental protection, green energy, digital innovation and artificial intelligence. They signed several new agreements reflecting these shared goals.
Although Uruguay is part of Mercosur, a South American trade bloc that limits unilateral trade deals, President Orsi signaled an ongoing interest in exploring broader economic engagement with Beijing while respecting existing regional agreements. Mercosur recently finalized a long‑awaited trade deal with the European Union, reducing tariffs on most trade between the two regions.
Later today, President Orsi is scheduled to meet with China’s Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, one of the country’s top officials, before continuing his visit in Shanghai.
At its heart, this dialogue reflects a world where more countries are seeking alternatives to traditional political and economic alignments, and where cooperation — rather than dominance — is increasingly seen as a path forward.
