Ecuador calls for Chinese investment during the earthquake relief

World Today

Ecuador calls for Chinese investment during the earthquake relief

In the aftermath of the April earthquake in Ecuador, the Chinese government took part in the emergency and relief operations, sending personnel and humanitarian aid.

Now, Ecuadorians hope China will also look for business opportunities that will also help the country’s reconstruction.

CCTV America’s Paulo Cabral reports.

Seven months on, Salvador is still living in one of the 5400 tents donated by the Chinese government as part of a $9.5 million aid package.

Hundreds of people here are still living in tent camps here in the coastal city of Manta.

It was among the worst hit by the earthquake. The downtown area remains off-limits to older residents and shop owners, while the demolition continues.

Manta’s mayor said international aid was essential to get the city running again.

The Ecuadorian reconstruction secretary believes China’s involvement reflects the deepening ties between the two countries.

The international aid that came in response to the earthquake was most welcomed by the people of Ecuador. But the message many here want to convey now is that they are open for business and eager for new investments.