Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has embarked on a significant journey to four African nations—Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria—from January 5 to 11. This visit underscores China’s ongoing commitment to deepening ties with the African continent and promoting mutual growth.
This journey continues a tradition established in 1991, marking the 35th consecutive year that the Chinese foreign ministers have made Africa their first overseas destination each year. The visit holds profound significance as it demonstrates China’s dedication to fostering a dynamic partnership with Africa, facilitating the implementation of the outcomes of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and paving the way for sustained development in China-Africa relations in 2025.
The connection between China and Africa reflects a shared vision for the development and prosperity of the Global South. Both regions acknowledge the importance of collaboration in peace and security, economic integration across Africa, supply chain stability, and cross-continental prosperity. This longstanding cooperation forms the bedrock for expanding diplomatic and strategic ties.
In 2024, the Sino-African relationship achieved remarkable successes. Notably, China offered unwavering support for Africa’s pursuit of a modernization path tailored to its national circumstances. The adoption of the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027) at the FOCAC Beijing Summit charted a new course for multilateral cooperation. Dynamic economic collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), high-level exchanges, robust trade growth, and joint efforts in addressing climate change have further strengthened the partnership.
China has been Africa’s top commercial partner for 15 consecutive years. Collaborative efforts in technology transfer, talent development, and capacity building have yielded fruitful results across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, medicine, the digital economy, and agriculture.
With Wang Yi’s visit this year, prospects for 2025 appear increasingly stable and promising. The complementary nature of China and Africa’s economies positions them well to address common challenges and pursue shared growth. Africa’s strategic pursuit of the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and its modernization drive are likely to foster increased cooperation, with win-win partnerships and multilateral frameworks playing crucial roles.
Energy partnerships—including green technology and renewable energy—trade diversification, and agricultural modernization represent significant steps toward enhancing economic cooperation. China’s advancements in new energy, environmental development, and technology align closely with Africa’s economic needs. Strengthening these linkages, Chinese green and technological products, renowned 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
