Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with several African leaders on Thursday, aiming to bolster partnerships and enhance cooperation between China and African countries. The meetings took place during the fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Changsha, the capital of central China’s Hunan Province.
Wang Yi held discussions with Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali, Mozambican Foreign Minister Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas, and Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey. These meetings focused on strengthening strategic partnerships, supporting development initiatives, and fostering mutual growth.
In his meeting with Somali Foreign Minister Ali, Wang Yi emphasized the elevation of China-Somalia relations to a strategic partnership during last year’s FOCAC Beijing Summit. He expressed China’s commitment to implementing the summit’s outcomes, bringing tangible benefits to the Somali people, and assisting in restoring peace and accelerating reconstruction. Ali thanked China for its unwavering support during Somalia’s most challenging times and expressed eagerness to participate in China’s global initiatives.
While meeting with Mozambican Foreign Minister Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas, Wang Yi highlighted China’s willingness to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership with Mozambique. He voiced support for Mozambique’s industrialization and modernization efforts. Lucas appreciated China’s new measures to support African development and acknowledged China’s countermeasures against unilateral tariffs.
In discussions with Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, Wang Yi congratulated Togo on the smooth transition of its political system. He reaffirmed China’s support for Togo in exploring a governance path suited to its national conditions and in safeguarding its independence and sovereignty. Dussey praised China’s global initiatives for promoting solidarity, cooperation, and contributing significantly to world stability and prosperity.
The engagements underscore China’s dedication to fostering strong ties with African nations, focusing on mutual respect, shared growth, and collaborative development.
