Uruguay President Orsi deepens ties with China’s Xi despite Trump threats

Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi visited China in February 2026, becoming the first Latin American leader to do so since the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces. Orsi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing to deepen their countries' "comprehensive strategic partnership," signing a dozen cooperation agreements related to science, technology, and trade. Xi emphasized promoting a "multipolar world" and "inclusive economic globalization." Orsi stated Uruguay is actively pursuing international engagement and creating development opportunities. The visit occurred amid pressure from the US to limit Chinese influence in Latin America. Orsi's seven-day trip included a 150-person delegation and a planned stop in Shanghai.