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 underscores China’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong ties with Africa and supporting the continent’s growth and development.
Continuing a 35-year tradition of Chinese foreign ministers choosing Africa for their first overseas trip each year, Wang Yi’s visit highlights the deep-rooted friendship and ever-evolving partnership between China and Africa. The tour aims to facilitate the implementation of the outcomes of the upcoming 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), deepen practical cooperation across various fields, and promote sustained, in-depth development of China-Africa relations into 2025.
The connection between China and Africa embodies a shared vision for the prosperity of the Global South. Both regions recognize the importance of collaboration in peace and security, economic integration, supply chain stability, and cross-continental development. This longstanding cooperation forms the backbone of their expanding diplomatic and strategic ties.
In 2024, the Sino-African relationship achieved numerous successes. China’s unwavering support for Africa’s modernization efforts, tailored to each nation’s unique circumstances, was evident. The adoption of the Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027) at the FOCAC Beijing Summit set a dynamic framework for multilateral cooperation. Additionally, high-quality trade growth, technological transfers, talent development, and capacity building were realized in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, medicine, digital economy, and agriculture.
As Africa’s top commercial partner for 15 consecutive years, China has facilitated fruitful collaborations that have yielded significant results. Wang Yi’s current visit signals a promising outlook for 2025, focusing on addressing common challenges and pursuing shared growth. With highly complementary economies, China and Africa are poised to enhance cooperation in pursuit of the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and modernization drives.
Energy partnerships, especially in green technology and renewable energy, trade diversification, and agricultural modernization are anticipated to be pivotal areas of economic collaboration. China’s expertise in new energy, environmental development, and technological advancements aligns with Africa’s economic needs. The increasing popularity of Chinese green and tech products in Africa, known for their quality and affordability, further strengthens these ties.
Wang Yi’s African tour not only reaffirms China’s dedication to supporting Africa’s growth but also sets the stage for a new era of mutually beneficial cooperation. As both regions work together to create a stable, prosperous future, their partnership will continue to play a crucial role in the global landscape.
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Wang Yi's visit highlights China's support for Africa's growth
cgtn.com
