The European Union is seeking to deepen its relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean, framing the partnership as one built on "strategic autonomy" rather than as a counterbalance to China's growing influence in the region.
Uruguay has emerged as a beacon of transparency in the Americas, securing the top position in Transparency International's latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) with a score of 76 points – its highest since 2012.
The Trump administration's sweeping plans to axe USAID are poised to deliver a significant blow to humanitarian and development programmes across Latin America, paving the way for Beijing's increased activity.
Panama is hosting what organisers touted as the region's answer to Davos, as political and business leaders gather to tackle Latin America's persistent economic challenges amid growing concerns over rising poverty and middle-class stagnation.
Latin America and the Caribbean face mounting risks to food security as climate change intensifies, with the region now second only to Asia in its exposure to extreme weather events, according to a joint report by UN agencies.