China Reaffirms Support for African Self-Determination
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledged Beijing’s steadfast support for South Africa’s independent development strategy during high-level talks with South African counterpart Ronald Lamola in Rio de Janeiro this week. The meeting between the two BRICS nations’ diplomats highlighted growing coordination among emerging economies.
A Partnership of Principles
“China will continue providing assistance within its capacity to support South Africa’s development priorities,” stated Wang, who serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. He emphasized both nations’ role in “safeguarding the common interests of developing countries” through South-South cooperation.
Economic Priorities Take Center Stage
Lamola reaffirmed Pretoria’s commitment to the one-China principle while calling for expanded collaboration in trade, renewable energy projects, and workforce development programs. The ministers notably aligned their criticism of protectionist policies that “threaten Africa’s sustainable development,” advocating instead for enhanced multilateralism among Global South nations.
The dialogue occurred against the backdrop of evolving supply chain dynamics and increasing demands for technology transfer partnerships in green energy sectors – key areas where Chinese investment continues reshaping African infrastructure development.
