China and African nations solidified their commitment to reshaping global economic dynamics through the landmark Changsha Declaration, unveiled Wednesday at the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) follow-up actions. The agreement signals a unified stance among Global South nations against unilateral trade practices while outlining concrete steps to boost African development.
A New Blueprint for Cooperation
Representatives from 53 African countries and the African Union Commission joined Chinese officials in Hunan Province to operationalize the 2024 Beijing Summit's vision. The declaration emphasizes:
Joint opposition to protectionism and 'economic bullying'
Expansion of zero-tariff access for African exports to China
Priority cooperation in green tech, AI, and e-commerce
Economic Priorities Take Center Stage
The agreement calls for 'development assistance to African countries [to] be effectively increased, not unilaterally slashed,' with specific measures including:
100% zero-tariff access for qualifying African goods
Streamlined customs procedures for least-developed nations
Skills training programs to boost trade capacity
Redefining Global Governance
Both sides committed to defending the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, with African delegates praising China's role in 'safeguarding international economic order.' The declaration positions China-Africa collaboration as a stabilizing force in global affairs, advocating for 'an equal and orderly multipolar world.'
The outcomes document highlights progress on 2024 Beijing Summit commitments, with plans advancing for the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to deepen cultural ties.
