Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sao Tome and Principe’s Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada in Beijing on Thursday, marking a significant step in the relationship between the two nations.
The meeting, held during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), concluded with both leaders announcing the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership.
President Xi emphasized that Sao Tome and Principe’s return to the China-Africa family aligns with the shared interests of both peoples. He affirmed China’s ongoing support for the African nation’s national construction and economic development.
Xi called for both countries to maintain the direction of friendship, strengthen exchanges on governance and administration, and enhance strategic mutual trust. He highlighted areas such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries, and infrastructure as key sectors for future cooperation.
Prime Minister Trovoada expressed gratitude for China’s valuable assistance in Sao Tome and Principe’s economic development. He noted that the partnership actions announced by Xi at the FOCAC summit would significantly promote progress in both his country and Africa at large.
Trovoada praised the important concepts and initiatives put forward by Xi, including the vision of building a community with a shared future. He reaffirmed Sao Tome and Principe’s firm commitment to the one-China principle.
The meeting underscores China’s growing engagement with African nations and highlights the mutual benefits of enhanced cooperation. Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to safeguarding the common interests of developing countries on international and regional issues.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
