Q COSTARICA — After asserting that Melinda Hildebrand, the new United States ambassador to Costa Rica, made statements that “sow discord” in relations between Costa Rica and China, the Chinese embassy expressed its dissatisfaction and called for respect from its counterpart.
The U.S. Embassy even highlighted that President Donald Trump himself expressed his interest in deepening “mutual respect” between the United States and China.
“The statements ignore the facts and realities of exchanges and cooperation between China and Costa Rica, spreading in bad faith the ‘economic threat theory’ of China. These assertions sow discord in the friendly relations between China and Costa Rica and run counter to President Donald Trump’s public commitment to deepening mutual respect between China and the U.S. The Chinese side expresses its strong dissatisfaction and categorical opposition to this,” the embassy stated.
Upon arriving in the country, Hildebrand had previously noted that countries like Costa Rica face challenges such as cybersecurity threats and Chinese economic influence.
“Relations between countries must respect the basic principle of non-interference in internal affairs. Cooperation between China and Costa Rica does not target any third party and is not subject to interference from any other country,” the Chinese diplomatic mission concluded.
Costa Rica has become a notable focal point for China’s expanding economic footprint in the region. Over the past decade, Chinese investment and trade ties with Costa Rica have steadily grown, reflecting Beijing’s broader strategy to deepen connections across Latin America.
Trade between the two countries has surged, with China becoming one of Costa Rica’s top trading partners. Chinese companies have invested heavily in infrastructure projects within Costa Rica, including ports, roads, and telecommunications. Tourism also benefits from China’s economic engagement.