As Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi embarks on his January 7-12 tour of Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho, Beijing continues a 36-year diplomatic tradition of prioritizing African relations at the start of each year. This 2026 visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic relations and launches a dedicated Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Infrastructure and Trade Milestones
Since the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) began in 2000, Chinese enterprises have delivered transformative infrastructure: 10,000 km of railways, 100,000 km of roads, and nearly 100 ports across the continent. Trade reached record levels in 2025, surpassing $300 billion through November and maintaining China’s position as Africa’s top trading partner for 16 consecutive years.
New Phase of Cooperation
The 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing laid groundwork for expanded collaboration in manufacturing, digital economies, and green industries. China’s 2024 tariff elimination for 33 African least-developed nations and 2025’s continent-wide zero-tariff commitment are reshaping economic landscapes. Last year’s historic Africa-hosted G20 summit saw China and South Africa jointly launch the Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa.
Cultural Bridges in 2026
This year’s activities will emphasize grassroots connections through education, tourism, and technology exchanges. Paul Zilungisele Tembe of South Africa’s SELE Encounters platform notes: "2026 offers more than anniversary symbolism – it’s a chance to build spiritual resonance through people-first diplomacy." The 18th FOCAC Senior Officials’ Meeting will accelerate implementation of Beijing Summit outcomes while advancing joint modernization efforts.
