Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has wrapped up a six-day tour of Africa, reinforcing strong ties between China and the continent. Visiting Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria, Wang emphasized China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s development and modernization.
During his trip, Wang Yi met with leaders of all four countries, who expressed firm support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and reiterated adherence to the one-China principle. Wang highlighted the tradition of China making Africa the first overseas destination for its foreign minister each new year, a practice upheld for 35 years.
“China will always be the most trustworthy friend of its African brothers and sisters,” Wang said, emphasizing that China’s commitment to Africa remains unwavering despite changes in the international landscape.
A key focus of Wang’s visit was discussing the implementation of the 10 partnership action plans proposed at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) last year. These plans aim to address Africa’s pressing challenges and support the continent’s development and revitalization.
Leaders, including President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo, praised the action plans for aligning with Africa’s needs. Wang expressed China’s readiness to work with African countries to deliver tangible outcomes and advance mutual modernization efforts.
Wang also emphasized the importance of the Global South partnership, noting that both China and Africa share aspirations for development and revitalization. He highlighted initiatives like the Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative as pathways to shared benefits.
“Without Africa’s modernization, global modernization cannot be achieved,” Wang noted, calling for joint efforts to lead the direction of global modernization.
Throughout his visit, Wang observed that African countries place great importance on deepening China-Africa cooperation. He emphasized strengthening exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations to build a stronger foundation for future collaboration.
