To turn opportunities into tangible benefits, it is essential to adopt a strategy that blends national and regional approaches, while respecting the unique cultural and economic characteristics of each country. By focusing on proactive diplomacy, strengthening internal capacities, and upholding principles of reciprocity and sustainable cooperation, these alliances can be built on more than just economic foundations. They will also foster balanced and mutually beneficial partnerships, writes Claudio Ruff Escobar, Rector of Bernardo O’Higgins University, Chile.