In a significant move to strengthen ties between China and Africa, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi embarked on a diplomatic visit to Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria from January 5 to 11. This marks the 35th consecutive year that a Chinese foreign minister has visited Africa, underscoring the resilience and importance of the China-Africa partnership.
China and Namibia share a deep-rooted relationship based on political understanding, cultural cooperation, and academic exchanges. Namibia appreciates China’s pivotal role in Africa’s development through significant investments and support. Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba recently highlighted the uniqueness of Beijing’s relations with the Global South, noting China’s commitment to win-win cooperation without any “historical hangover,” as China “was never a colonizer in Africa or the Caribbean.”
China’s investments in the Husab Uranium Project and Rossing Uranium Mine contribute approximately 7 percent of Namibia’s GDP. Further, at the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) last September, China committed over 1.5 billion Namibian dollars (about $80.2 million) to support Namibia in constructing housing facilities for police officers, future projects, and drought relief efforts. This initiative is part of Beijing’s push to promote mutual development and build a high-level community with a shared future.
During the FOCAC summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo, commending the country’s progress in consolidating peace and development. The two leaders witnessed the signing of bilateral agreements, including cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative and digital economy. Meanwhile, the first ladies discussed promoting healthcare, education, and welfare for women and children in Africa.
China’s development projects have transformed the Republic of the Congo’s infrastructure, bringing economic benefits and prosperity to the Congolese people. The No. 1 National Highway, a key outcome of FOCAC and widely known as the “Dream Road,” links Brazzaville, the capital, with Pointe-Noire, the economic center. This vital artery has reduced travel time and distance, transports about 90 percent of the country’s major products, generated 10,000 jobs, and trained over 4,000 local technicians.
China has been Chad’s largest trading and investment partner for several years. Beijing supports N’Djamena in pursuing its independent development path and is committed to contributing to the country’s growth. Bilateral relations have been elevated to a strategic partnership. Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno believes that China’s sustained development brings opportunities for his country, Africa, and the entire world.
At FOCAC, leading Chinese companies and institutions signed six memorandums of understanding with Chad in areas such as energy, water, agriculture, and infrastructure. These agreements aim to contribute to Chad’s development and enhance the well-being of its people.
China and Nigeria have maintained warm ties for almost 54 years since 1971 and share a close economic relationship. Bilateral trade volume reached $1.31 billion, a year-on-year increase of 16.5 percent in 2023. Ahead of FOCAC, President Xi and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu held talks, signing several deals including cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative and elevating bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This demonstrates their commitment to leveraging the strengthened relationship for “robust development, stability, and security” across Africa.
In the latest sign of deepening ties, Beijing and Abuja recently renewed a currency swap deal worth over $2 billion. The deal is expected to boost trade and investment between the two countries, ease pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves, reduce transaction costs, and stabilize Nigeria’s economy.
Wang Yi’s diplomatic visit underscores the resilience of the China-Africa partnership, as both sides navigate challenges together and foster mutual development. Through continued cooperation and shared goals, China and African nations are building a community with a shared future, contributing to global prosperity and stability.
Reference(s):
Resilient China-Africa partnership: Navigating challenges together
cgtn.com
