How U.S. views China-Latin America ties? Evidence from media coverage of Peru’s Chancay Port

Resumen

his study critically examines U.S. media representations of China’s involvement in the Chancay Port project in Peru, a pivotal infrastructure initiative within China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Through both quantitative and qualitative analysis of 24 selected articles from various U.S. media outlets, this research uncovers the complex storylines around China’s growing presence in Latin America. The article employs Critical Discourse Analysis to identify key themes and frames that reflect the nuances and complexity of U.S.’s cognition of the burgeoning Sino-Latin American links. The findings reveal a multidimensional interplay of economic opportunities and strategic concerns within the U.S. narrative. While the Chancay Port is acknowledged for its potential to boost regional trade and economic development, there is a significant emphasis on the geopolitical implications of China’s expanding influence. The study also underscores the U.S.’s historical view of Latin America as its sphere of influence, which is now contested by China’s growing engagement in the region. This in-depth case study that examines a specific project through the U.S. lens within the broader U.S.-China-Latin America interaction will contribute to comprehending the dynamics of contemporary international relations and the potential for cooperation or competition in the Americas.