Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's January 2026 visit to Africa has reinforced Beijing's commitment to long-term strategic partnerships and people-centered diplomacy across the continent. Marking the 36th consecutive year of China's diplomatic tradition prioritizing African relations, this year's tour coincides with the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic ties and aligns with implementation priorities of China's 15th Five-Year Plan.
Consistency in Strategic Priorities
Peking University's Professor Wang Jingjie emphasized the symbolic importance of maintaining this three-decade tradition: "China-Africa relations are treated as a long-term strategic priority with continuity and planning." The itinerary combined engagements with the African Union and visits to Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Lesotho, highlighting support for regional integration and modernization.
People-Centered Diplomacy
A cornerstone of this year's tour was the launch of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Lesotho Ambassador Mapaballo Mile described the initiative as crucial for building grassroots connections: "Even my grandmother in a rural village knows China's people and understands this partnership's strength." The program expands cooperation into cultural exchanges, education, and youth development.
Economic Modernization Focus
In Ethiopia, discussions centered on upgrading cooperation to include digital economy projects and green energy solutions. Tanzania's TAZARA railway revitalization emerged as a key regional development driver, supporting East African logistics and industrial growth. Ambassador Mile highlighted Lesotho's progress in renewable energy and healthcare infrastructure, particularly critical given recent global economic pressures.
Multilateralism as Common Ground
Both Professor Wang and Ambassador Mile emphasized China-Africa alignment on global governance reform. "International rules should protect all countries, not only the strongest," Professor Wang stated, while Ambassador Mile endorsed China's Global Governance Initiative as aligning with Africa's development aspirations.
