On September 5, the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) unfolded in Beijing, marking a new chapter in the enduring partnership between China and Africa. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a compelling keynote speech to an audience of heads of state, government leaders, and representatives from over 50 African nations, alongside prominent figures from the African Union, the United Nations, and other international organizations.
The summit set unprecedented records in both scale and attendance, signifying the depth and breadth of China-Africa relations. More than just a diplomatic gathering, it was a celebration of solidarity among countries of the “Global South,” united in their pursuit of shared modernization and development.
President Xi emphasized that “modernization is an inalienable right of all countries,” a statement that resonated deeply with the summit’s participants. This sentiment challenges long-held assumptions that only Western nations can define the path to modernization. Instead, China and African countries are confidently charting their own courses, tailored to their unique national conditions and aspirations.
The FOCAC represents a significant alliance, with its 54 member states—including China and 53 African countries—spanning approximately 40 million square kilometers and encompassing around 2.9 billion people. This alliance accounts for about 30 percent of the world’s land area and 36 percent of its population, highlighting the global importance of their cooperation.
The outcomes of the summit are poised to benefit more than one-third of the world’s population, promoting shared opportunities and equitable development. China’s commitment to assisting Africa comes without conditions, a stark contrast to traditional models of international aid. This approach fosters mutual respect and partnership, rather than dependency.
By embracing their own paths to modernization, China and African nations are working to rectify historical injustices and redefine global development narratives. The FOCAC 2024 Summit stands as a testament to their dedication to building a more inclusive and just world, where every nation has the right and the opportunity to modernize on its own terms.
Reference(s):
2024 Summit of FOCAC: Moving together for the future of modernization
cgtn.com
