President Joe Biden arrives at the APEC summit in Peru facing diminished authority after Donald Trump’s election victory and rising competition from China.
While Biden had hoped to strengthen U.S. ties in Latin America, Trump’s return threatens to revive isolationist policies, leaving China and President Xi Jinping to dominate the spotlight. Xi will unveil a $1.3 billion megaport near Lima, symbolizing Beijing’s deepening influence in the region.
China’s growing trade and infrastructure investments in Latin America have reshaped alliances, with the U.S. struggling to match Beijing’s economic footprint.
Analysts warn that the summit could highlight America’s waning clout, as Xi’s strategic moves, including state visits and economic projects, overshadow Biden’s outreach. With Trump’s unilateralist stance looming, the geopolitical competition between the U.S. and China is set to define this week’s talks.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.