Scholars and policymakers from China and Africa convened in Addis Ababa this week for the inaugural China-Africa Human Rights Seminar, emphasizing collaborative strategies to advance development rights across the Global South. The event, themed 'Building the China-Africa Community with a Shared Future,' highlighted practical approaches to addressing poverty, inequality, and sustainable growth.
Over 200 participants, including Ethiopian Minister of Justice Gedion Timothewos and Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Zhao Zhiyuan, discussed aligning development goals with the UN's 2030 Agenda. 'Development is the master key to solving all problems,' stated Zhao, underscoring China's commitment to infrastructure partnerships like the Belt and Road Initiative.
African scholars emphasized localized solutions. Dr. Amina Mohammed, an Ethiopian human rights researcher, noted: 'Our focus must shift from theoretical debates to actionable plans—clean water access, vocational training, and fair trade terms.' Sessions also explored technology transfer models and climate-resilient agriculture.
The seminar concluded with a joint pledge to establish a China-Africa research network, aiming to share policy frameworks and monitor progress. Analysts suggest this dialogue could reshape how development rights are prioritized in multilateral forums.
