An oldie from 2005: Hu Jintao out to conquer Mexico

The Chinese economy is a "key market" which brings benefits for all, says Hu Jintao. There are agreements on minerals, telecommunications, agriculture. Not even one word about human rights is mentioned in the meetings.

Mexico City (Asianews/agencies) – Chinese President Hu Jintao, on a two-day visit to Mexico, said today that China's growth as an economic power made it a "key market" for export and not a threat to traditional trade between Mexico and the United States, as it is often perceived to be.

Hu said "China in rapid expansion" is ready to consume Mexican goods, from Tequila to telecommunication services. "The door of the Chinese economy is open to Mexico," he said in a speech to the Senate.

In reality, the South American country is highly apprehensive of competition posed by cheaply priced Chinese-made products which have invaded the market of the United States. Nearly 90% of Mexican exports go to the US. Hu emphasised that China was ready to assume the role of chief buyer of Mexican products. "Many Mexican products, like computers, electronics, telecommunications, tequila and Corona beer have entered China's market and have been welcomed by its consumers," he said reassuringly. Mexican president Vicente Fox told the Senate that agreement had been reached with Beijing to reduce Mexico's annual 15 billion US dollar trade deficit with China.