Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has embarked on a significant tour of four African nations—Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria—from January 5 to 11. This visit marks a continuation of a 35-year tradition since 1991, where China’s foreign ministers choose Africa for their first overseas trip of the year, highlighting the enduring importance China places on its relationship with the continent.
Wang Yi’s visit underscores China’s commitment to deepening China-Africa relations and supporting the development of the Global South. The trip aims to facilitate the implementation of the outcomes from the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), strengthen practical cooperation across various fields, and promote sustained, in-depth development of China-Africa relations heading into 2025.
The partnership between China and Africa is rooted in a shared vision for growth, prosperity, and cross-continental collaboration. Both sides recognize the importance of working together on peace and security, economic integration, supply chain stability, and mutual prosperity. This long-standing cooperation forms the foundation for expanding diplomatic and strategic ties in the future.
In 2024, China and Africa achieved notable successes in their relationship. China has consistently supported Africa in pursuing a modernization path tailored to each nation’s circumstances. Multilateral frameworks like the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027), adopted at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and dynamic economic cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have strengthened ties. High-level exchanges, increased trade, and collaborative efforts on climate change have further solidified the partnership.
China has remained Africa’s top commercial partner for 15 consecutive years. Collaboration has yielded fruitful results in technology transfers, talent development, and capacity building across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, medicine, digital economy, and agriculture. Chinese green and technological products, known for their quality and affordability, have found a ready market in Africa.
Looking ahead, Wang Yi’s visit sets a positive tone for 2025, promising stability, prosperity, and enhanced cooperation. With highly complementary economies, China and Africa are poised to deepen their collaboration as Africa pursues the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and modernization efforts. Win-win partnerships and multilateral cooperation frameworks are expected to play a crucial role.
Partnerships in energy—particularly green technology and renewable energy—trade diversification, and agricultural modernization are anticipated to be key areas of focus. China’s expertise in new energy, environmental development, and technological advancements aligns well with Africa’s economic needs. By strengthening these links, both China and Africa stand to benefit from long-term, mutually advantageous trade and development.
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Wang Yi's visit highlights China's support for Africa's growth
cgtn.com
