Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo have pledged to strengthen China-Africa cooperation. In letters sent to a key ministerial meeting in Changsha, Hunan Province, both leaders emphasized the importance of deepening ties amid global changes.
President Xi highlighted China’s commitment to offering new opportunities to the world through its modernization efforts. He announced plans to negotiate a China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development. This partnership aims to implement zero-tariff treatment for all products from 53 African nations that have diplomatic relations with China, making it easier for African countries to export to the Chinese mainland.
“We are ready to deepen our cooperation in green industry, e-commerce, science and technology, and artificial intelligence,” Xi stated. He also emphasized enhancing collaboration in security, finance, and the rule of law to promote high-quality development between China and Africa.
President Xi expressed hope that by advancing modernization together, China and Africa can strengthen solidarity among Global South partners and contribute to global peace and development. “Open cooperation is the right path, and mutual benefit meets the aspirations of the people,” he said.
President Sassou Nguesso, in his letter, noted the fruitful results of strategic cooperation since the Beijing Summit. As the African co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), he pledged to work with China to further progress in building a shared future for both peoples.
“We are committed to strengthening cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative,” Sassou Nguesso said. He called for building a multipolar world free from unilateralism and protectionism, ushering in a new era of inclusive and mutually beneficial globalization.
The ministerial meeting marked the 25th anniversary of FOCAC, highlighting the enduring partnership between China and Africa. Both leaders’ messages underscored the shared commitment to fostering closer ties and driving sustainable development across the continent.
