China eyes free trade talks with Colombia

Trade & Policy

China eyes free trade talks with Colombia

China wants to start talks on a feasibility study for a free trade agreement with Colombia as soon as possible, China's foreign minister said during a visit to the South American country, where he also offered support for its peace process.

China is not a big diplomatic player in the region despite being a major commodities buyer there, but already has free trade pacts with Peru, Chile and Costa Rica. President Xi Jinping will attend a summit of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) bloc in Peru next month and is also expected to visit several other Latin American nations.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a visit to Colombia that China would maintain close communications with Bogota to start substantive talks on a free trade agreement feasibility study as early as possible, China's Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.The statement provided no details.