Beijing, China — In a historic move to deepen ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye announced on Friday the elevation of China-Burundi relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The announcement was made during a significant meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, coinciding with the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
A Meeting of Minds at FOCAC 2024
The two leaders convened amidst the grandeur of the FOCAC summit, a pivotal event shaping the future of China-Africa relations. President Ndayishimiye’s visit marks his second journey to China within a year, reflecting the strengthening bonds between the two nations. During their discussion, President Xi emphasized the robust foundation of China-Burundi relations, highlighting that their partnership has withstood the test of time and emerged as a model of mutual respect and cooperation.
“China and Burundi have stood shoulder to shoulder through thick and thin,” Xi remarked. “Our elevation to a comprehensive strategic partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to development and the well-being of our peoples.”
Advancing Mutual Interests and Global South Solidarity
President Xi underscored the importance of the new partnership in serving the interests of both nations and setting an example of solidarity for countries in the Global South. He noted that the outcomes of the FOCAC summit have charted a new course for China-Africa relations, injecting fresh momentum into modernization efforts and marking a milestone in bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
He expressed hope that China and Burundi would seize this opportunity to implement the outcomes of the summit, further enhancing their ties in key areas.
Commitment to Shared Development
Reaffirming China’s support for Burundi, Xi pledged assistance in resisting external interference and following an independent path of development. He emphasized deepening cooperation in rural revitalization, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development. Cultural exchanges were also highlighted as a means to strengthen the traditional friendship between the two nations.
Moreover, Xi congratulated Burundi on its election as the chair of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, expressing China’s readiness to strengthen international coordination to protect the shared interests of developing countries and to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
Burundi’s Vision for Partnership
President Ndayishimiye expressed his appreciation for China’s warm hospitality and his delight at returning to Beijing for the FOCAC summit. He congratulated China on successfully hosting the event and voiced full support for President Xi’s “10 partnership action plans with Africa to advance modernization.”
“Burundi-China relations are grounded in shared values and ideals,” Ndayishimiye stated. “We are committed to industrialization and agricultural modernization, and China’s invaluable support and cooperation are key to our progress.”
He welcomed increased Chinese investment in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and infrastructure, reiterating Burundi’s unwavering adherence to the one-China principle.
New Agreements and Future Collaborations
The meeting concluded with the signing of several bilateral cooperation agreements between China and Burundi. These agreements cover areas including the Belt and Road Initiative, economic partnerships, agricultural cooperation, and the export of coffee beans from Burundi to China, signaling a new chapter in trade relations.
A Shared Path Forward
The elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for China and Burundi. It reflects a mutual dedication to development, cooperation, and a shared vision for the future. As both nations move forward, their strengthened alliance is poised to contribute positively to their peoples and the broader international community.
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Chinese, Burundian presidents announce elevation of bilateral ties
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