On August 8, 2006, the Institute of Latin America (ILAS) held an inaugural meeting, which proclaimed the foundation of the Center for Central America and the Caribbean. Presided over by Professor Song Xiaoping, Deputy Chief of ILAS, it attracted over sixty participants including some Caribbean diplomatic personnel in China and the former Chinese ambassadors to those countries. Mr. Yang Wanming, Deputy Director of the Department of Latin American Affairs at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was invited to address the meeting and Professor Jiang Shixue, Deputy Chief of ILAS, gave a remark with an emphasis on the significance of the center.

Affiliated to the Institute of Latin American Studies, the Center shall have the objective of coordinating the ILAS scholars’ research on Central American and the Caribbean affairs and offering intellectual supports for decision-making of the Chinese government. Its research interests cover political, economic, diplomatic and social affairs in the region. It will hold symposiums frequently to discuss the current significant issues occurred in the region and invite well-known Chinese or foreign scholars to expound their points of view. Supported by ILAS along with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, it will publish a collection of writings each year on the regional issues. In addition, it will attempt to offer expert or professional advices to those Chinese enterprises that are intent on trading with and investing in the region.

Speech of Ambassador Roy M.Wong Lun Hing of Suriname

Speech of Jiang Shixue , Deputy Chief of ILAS