Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, is set to embark on his first overseas trip of the year to Africa from January 13 to 18. Continuing a tradition that began in 1991, this marks his 11th consecutive annual visit to the continent since assuming office in March 2013.
Wang Yi will visit Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Cote d’Ivoire, engaging with leaders to reinforce the longstanding ties between China and these nations. Following his African tour, he will proceed to Brazil and Jamaica, countries with significant African heritage, highlighting the global scope of China’s diplomatic relations.
This annual visit underscores China’s commitment to its partnership with Africa, reflecting a relationship built on mutual respect and shared interests. The consistent attention from China’s top diplomats is highly valued in Africa, where such gestures are seen as a sign of genuine partnership and solidarity.
Throughout the years, China and Africa have deepened their cooperation beyond economic and diplomatic spheres, addressing common challenges and pursuing a shared vision for development. As the largest developing country and continent respectively, China and Africa find common ground in their aspirations and efforts to overcome obstacles in various sectors.
A cornerstone of this collaboration is the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), established in 2000. Comprising China, 53 African countries with diplomatic relations with China, and the African Union Commission, FOCAC serves as a platform to enhance dialogue and implement joint initiatives. The 16th Senior Officials Meeting of FOCAC held in Beijing last October reaffirmed the partners’ commitment to mutual benefit, shared development, and win-win cooperation. By 2021, over 70 percent of the outcomes from the 2018 FOCAC Beijing Summit had been implemented, showcasing tangible progress in their collaborative efforts.
Wang Yi’s visit is not only symbolic but also practical, aiming to strengthen existing ties and explore new avenues for cooperation. Regular high-level engagements like these reinforce the symbiotic relationship between China and Africa, fostering trust and contributing to global development and stability.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi's visit underscores symbiotic ties between China and Africa
cgtn.com
