China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, has concluded a six-day visit to Africa, reinforcing strong China-Africa ties and reaffirming mutual commitment to development and cooperation. The visit, which covered Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria, highlighted the enduring partnership between China and the African continent.
During his tour, Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, engaged in extensive discussions with leaders of the four nations. The African leaders expressed their firm support for China in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterating their adherence to the one-China principle.
“The tradition of making Africa the first overseas destination for China’s foreign minister each new year is a hallmark of Chinese diplomacy, upheld consistently for 35 years,” Wang Yi told Chinese media. “Regardless of changes in the international or regional landscape, China’s commitment to Africa remains unwavering.”
Wang emphasized that China views the development of relations with Africa as a top priority in its overall diplomatic strategy. “China will always be the most trustworthy friend of its African brothers and sisters, the most reliable partner in their pursuit of development and revitalization, and the strongest supporter of Africa on the international stage,” he added.
Advancing Mutual Cooperation
The visit focused on implementing the 10 partnership action plans proposed at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held last year. Wang Yi noted that these plans address key aspects of China-Africa cooperation and align closely with Africa’s development needs.
“China is ready to work with African countries to deliver tangible outcomes from the partnership action plans, ensuring that both sides can advance faster, more steadily, and further on their path toward modernization,” Wang said.
Supporting the Rise of the Global South
Wang Yi highlighted the importance of facilitating the rise of the Global South through pragmatic collaboration between China and Africa. He emphasized that as the largest developing country, China is committed to promoting unity and revitalization among developing nations.
“Africa has the right to realize modernization, and without Africa’s modernization, global modernization cannot be achieved,” Wang stated. He expressed China’s willingness to support African nations in their modernization efforts, thereby contributing to global progress.
Strengthening Cultural and Development Exchanges
The visit also underscored the significance of fostering mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations. Wang Yi stressed that both China and Africa have rich histories and are actively pursuing national development and revitalization.
Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, China has achieved significant progress in its modernization drive. Wang noted that these achievements offer valuable insights and new opportunities for African nations seeking to accelerate their development.
“China and African countries have decided to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, sharing governance experiences, and laying a stronger foundation for China-Africa cooperation,” Wang said.
Looking ahead, China is committed to working with Africa to promote principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits in global governance. Wang Yi affirmed China’s dedication to steadily advancing high-quality development of Belt and Road cooperation and implementing global initiatives for development, security, and civilization.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi wraps up Africa visit, reaffirms strong China-Africa ties
cgtn.com
