Colombia’s president said his recent trip to China is a historic milestone for trade and investment between the two countries.
Upon finishing his visit to China, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos told local media, “This visit will be remembered as historical because it means an important increase in investment and trade.”
Santos said the increase in investment and trade would create more jobs for Colombians.
“This represents more employment and a higher standard of living for Colombians. We hope that all we’ve been doing translates to better and more jobs for Colombians.” said Santos.
Santos also commented on China’s interest in Colombia’s natural resources as the Asian country uses coal to generate more than half of its electricity. “Colombia has what China needs.” said Santos.
China is currently Colombia’s second largest trading partner, closely behind the U.S. Colombia’s top exports to China are oil and coal.
Last March a Korean energy company made its first Colombian-only coal purchase amid rising Asian demand for Colombian coal.