Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to four African nations—Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria—from January 5 to 11, 2024. This visit continues the 35-year tradition of Chinese foreign ministers choosing Africa for their first overseas trip of the year, underscoring China’s enduring commitment to the continent and the broader Global South.
The trip aims to strengthen China-Africa relations in multiple dimensions, facilitating the implementation of the outcomes of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). By deepening practical cooperation in various fields, China and Africa are poised to promote sustained and in-depth development of their relations into 2025 and beyond.
The connection between China and Africa represents a shared vision for development and prosperity. Both sides acknowledge the importance of collaboration in peace and security, economic integration across Africa, supply chain stability, and cross-continental prosperity. This longstanding partnership forms the foundation for expanding diplomatic and strategic ties.
In 2024, the Sino-African relationship achieved notable successes. China’s unwavering support for Africa’s pursuit of a modernization path suited to their national circumstances was evident. The adoption of the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027) at the FOCAC Beijing Summit charted a multilateral cooperation framework, enhancing dynamic economic cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), fostering high-level exchanges, boosting high-quality trade growth, and initiating multiple climate cooperation projects.
China has remained Africa’s top commercial partner for 15 consecutive years. Collaborative efforts have yielded fruitful results in technology transfers, talent development, and capacity building across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, medicine, the digital economy, and agriculture.
Looking ahead, Wang Yi’s visit sets a promising tone for 2025. With highly complementary economies, China and Africa are poised to address common challenges and pursue shared growth. Africa’s strategic pursuit of the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and modernization drive aligns with China’s vision for win-win partnerships and multilateral cooperation frameworks.
Partnerships in energy—including green technology and renewable energy—trade diversification, and agricultural modernization are expected to be pivotal steps toward enhanced economic cooperation. China’s increasing influence in new energy, environmental development, and technological advancements aligns with Africa’s economic requirements. Strengthening these linkages, Chinese green and tech products, known for their quality and affordability, have found a receptive market in Africa.
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Wang Yi's visit highlights China's support for Africa's growth
cgtn.com
