Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the critical timing of enhanced cooperation between China and Africa during his recent diplomatic tour, marking a new chapter in cross-continental relations. Speaking to media on January 12 after concluding visits to the African Union (AU), Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Lesotho, Wang described 2026 as a pivotal year for aligning strategies between the world's second-largest economy and the 54-nation continental bloc.
"The strengthening of strategic mutual trust between China and AU comes right on time," stated Wang, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. His remarks followed the ninth China-AU Strategic Dialogue and the launch of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa.
The veteran diplomat highlighted three key cooperation pillars for this year:
Jointly addressing global economic uncertainties through aligned development strategies
Protecting mutual interests in international governance systems
Enhancing cultural understanding through grassroots exchanges
This visit continues a 36-year tradition where Chinese foreign ministers prioritize African nations for their first annual overseas trip. Analysts note the timing coincides with increased African participation in multilateral institutions and growing demand for infrastructure investment across the continent.
Business leaders anticipate the strengthened ties could unlock new opportunities in digital infrastructure and green energy sectors, particularly under China's Global Development Initiative framework. The AU-China partnership currently supports over 800 major projects across transportation, healthcare, and education sectors in Africa.
