Gen. Richardson cautions against China’s LatAm expansion — MercoPress

Gen. Richardson Sounds Alarm on China’s Expansion in Latin America

Security and economic stability go “hand in hand,” Richardson insisted

During the Ninth Hemispheric Security Conference at the Florida International University, US Southern Command Chief General Laura Richardson raised concerns about China’s expanding influence in Latin America, particularly in building critical infrastructure. She emphasized the importance of competition in infrastructure construction to combat organized crime and protect local interests.

Richardson highlighted how China’s infrastructure projects in Latin America gave them enhanced access to the region’s natural resources, often at the expense of local benefits. She also warned about cyber attacks on critical information networks and urged governments to safeguard infrastructure from Chinese control.

The general stressed the need for international cooperation to address China’s economic and technological expansion while promoting democratic cybersecurity alternatives. Richardson also urged US companies to compete for infrastructure contracts in Latin America to counter Chinese influence.

Overall, Richardson’s warnings shed light on the security implications of China’s increasing presence in Latin America and the importance of safeguarding regional interests against potential authoritarian threats.