
Since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations on August 21, 2018, El Salvador and China have embarked on a journey of deepening ties and mutual cooperation, marked by significant milestones that underscore the strategic importance of this relationship for both nations.
This transformative partnership, rooted in El Salvador’s recognition of the “One China” policy, has evolved into a comprehensive alliance fostering economic, infrastructural, and even military collaboration.
A cornerstone in this burgeoning relationship was President Nayib Bukele’s historic state visit to China in December 2019. During this visit, President Bukele engaged in dialogues with China’s President Xi Jinping, solidifying El Salvador’s commitment to China’s territorial integrity regarding Taiwan.
This diplomatic alignment unlocked a wave of Chinese investment and support, which has played a pivotal role in El Salvador’s national development.
One of the most tangible outcomes of this cooperation is the substantial non-reimbursable financial aid from China, which has facilitated numerous infrastructure projects across El Salvador. A flagship project is the construction of the new National Library, a symbol of cultural and educational advancement located in San Salvador’s historic center.

Beyond cultural investments, China has also been instrumental in supporting projects with far-reaching impacts on everyday life in El Salvador. The development of a new water treatment plant stands out as a significant social investment, poised to improve the lives of over 100,000 Salvadorans by providing clean and safe water—a critical resource for sustainable development.
Furthermore, the planned construction of CIFCO, the premier convention and fair center, aims to position El Salvador as a regional hub for economic and trade events, enhancing its attractiveness for international business.
The relationship has also expanded into the defense realm, with the unprecedented move of El Salvador approving a Chinese military attaché. This presence not only reflects a new level of diplomatic interaction but also signals a strategic partnership in communication and security collaboration.
For China, El Salvador represents an important strategic partner in Latin America, facilitating deeper geopolitical ties and influence in the region.
This partnership exemplifies how strategic alliances can yield significant benefits, fostering mutual prosperity and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
Another thing worth highlighting is that during the Biden administration, the United States took a more hostile stance towards El Salvador, particularly as the Salvadoran government intensified its efforts to combat gang violence and restore order within its borders.
In contrast, China took the opportunity to draw even closer to El Salvador, further solidifying their partnership. Besides China, El Salvador also maintains strong ties with other Asian nations like Japan and South Korea, underscoring its strategic approach to fostering diverse international alliances.