The National Library of El Salvador (BINAES) has been internationally recognized by China Global Television Network (CGTN) as one of the most significant infrastructure projects supported by China in Latin America. Highlighted during the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum, BINAES stands as a symbol of diplomatic cooperation and cultural exchange between El Salvador and the People’s Republic of China.

In a documentary released during the event in Beijing, CGTN underscored BINAES as a result of consensus between the presidents of both nations, Xi Jinping and Nayib Bukele. The feature emphasized the innovation behind the library’s butterfly-shaped design, symbolizing open cultural exchange across continents.

“The most important aspect is our innovation in the architectural plan — a butterfly-shaped structure with open wings, a symbol of the exchange between both countries,” said Lei Wei, Deputy Director of Architecture at the South-Central China Architectural Design Institute.

Since its opening, BINAES has welcomed over 2.5 million visitors and remains open 24 hours a day, making it a benchmark for accessibility and modern public infrastructure in the region.

CGTN noted that the project not only reflects China’s commitment to development cooperation in Latin America but also marks the beginning of deeper bilateral ties that extend beyond infrastructure into the cultural and technological spheres.

“Through the China-CELAC Forum, cultural exchange and cooperation between China and El Salvador will expand beyond construction to include innovation and shared development,” CGTN stated.

BINAES is part of a broader portfolio of China-supported projects in El Salvador, including the National Stadium and a water treatment plant in Ilopango, reinforcing a growing strategic alliance between the two countries.