In a significant move to strengthen ties and promote cooperation, China and 53 African countries have issued the Changsha Declaration, aiming to uphold solidarity and collaboration within the Global South. The declaration was announced during the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha, the capital of China's Hunan Province.
A Call for Unity in the Global South
The Changsha Declaration underscores the importance of the rising influence of the Global South in international affairs. China and African nations have agreed to work together to build a community with a shared future, promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. They also aim to implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative to foster mutual growth and security.
Opposing Unilateralism and Economic Bullying
Addressing the challenges posed by unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying, the declaration highlights the severe difficulties these practices create for developing countries. China and African nations are calling on all countries, particularly the United States, to resolve trade disputes through equal and respectful consultations, emphasizing the need for a fair international economic and trade order.
Strengthening Economic Ties
China announced its readiness to expand zero-tariff treatment to 100% of tariff lines for all 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with China. This move is set to boost trade, enhance skills and technical training, and promote the entry of quality African products into the Chinese market.
Deepening Cooperation for Modernization
Both sides agreed to deepen the implementation of ten partnership actions for modernization, prioritizing cooperation in key areas such as green industry, e-commerce, science and technology, and artificial intelligence. They aim to promote high-quality development of China-Africa cooperation, setting an example of solidarity and self-reliance for the Global South.
Upholding Multilateralism and Sovereign Equality
The declaration calls on the international community to uphold true multilateralism and oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism. China and African countries emphasized the need to defend the United Nations-centered international system and the multilateral trading system, fostering an open and inclusive economic globalization.
Advancing People-to-People Exchanges
With plans outlined in the Concept Paper of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, both sides aim to contribute to the solidarity of the Global South through enhanced cultural and social interactions.
A Benchmark for Global South Cooperation
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation has become a benchmark for solidarity and cooperation among Global South countries. The Changsha Declaration represents a significant step toward building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future, promoting mutual benefit, and fostering a more inclusive world economy.
