Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has embarked on a significant visit to four African nations—Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria—from January 5 to 11. This trip aims to strengthen China-Africa relations and promote mutual growth and development.
This visit continues a longstanding tradition, maintained for 35 consecutive years since 1991, where Chinese foreign ministers choose Africa for their first overseas trips each year. The journey underscores China’s unwavering commitment to fostering a strong partnership with African nations and supporting the development of the Global South.
China and Africa share a deep-rooted connection, reflecting a mutual vision for economic cooperation, peace, and security. Both sides recognize the importance of collaboration in areas such as economic integration, supply chain stability, and cross-continental prosperity. This foundation has paved the way for expanding diplomatic and strategic ties.
In 2024, the Sino-African relationship witnessed significant achievements. China continued to support Africa in pursuing a modernization path tailored to their national circumstances. Initiatives like the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027), adopted at the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), have charted a multilateral cooperation framework. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) facilitated dynamic economic cooperation, leading to high-quality trade growth and collaboration in technology transfers, talent development, and capacity building across various industries including manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, medicine, digital economy, and agriculture.
As China has been Africa’s top commercial partner for 15 consecutive years, fruitful results have been achieved through these partnerships. Wang Yi’s visit this year sets a positive tone for 2025, focusing on addressing common challenges and pursuing shared growth. With highly complementary economies, China and Africa are poised to enhance cooperation, especially in energy sectors, trade diversification, and agricultural modernization.
Partnerships in green technology, renewable energy, and technological advancements align with Africa’s economic needs. Chinese products, known for their quality and affordability, have found a ready market in Africa, further strengthening the ties between the two regions.
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Wang Yi's visit highlights China's support for Africa's growth
cgtn.com
