By Lawal Sale
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reaffirmed the enduring strength of China–Africa relations, describing the partnership as one that has “stood the test of changing international circumstances” and continues to show strong vitality.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), Wang Yi noted that China–Africa friendship has been nurtured over the past 70 years through mutual support and shared development aspirations. He highlighted a long-standing diplomatic tradition in which China’s foreign minister begins the year with a visit to Africa — a practice maintained for 36 consecutive years, reflecting China’s commitment to the continent.
Recalling historical ties, Wang referenced the visit of former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai to Africa in the 1960s, which many Africans still remember fondly.
Wang also pointed to China’s assistance in constructing the TAZARA Railway linking Tanzania and Zambia, describing it as a symbol of solidarity forged through shared effort and sacrifice, including Chinese engineers and workers who lost their lives during the project.
“It’s no exaggeration to say that China–Africa friendship has been passed down from generation to generation — forged heart to heart and built with sweat and blood,” Wang said.
He emphasized that Chinese President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to relations with Africa, having consistently advocated the principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith in China’s engagement with the continent, adding that a long-existing framework has helped elevate China–Africa cooperation to new heights.
The Minister explained that in the first two months of 2024 alone, Xi has sent three messages to Africa: 1) a congratulatory letter marking the launch of the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, 2) a reply to veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, and 3) a congratulatory message to the African Union summit for the 14th consecutive year.
Wang reiterated that the messages demonstrated China’s commitment to sustaining long-term friendship with Africa and supporting the continent’s development and revitalization.
The top Chinese diplomat also outlined several new developments expected in China–Africa relations this year – these include further efforts to build a China–Africa community with a shared future, and the hosting of multiple African leaders in China to deepen cooperation.
Among the expected new developments are the full implementation of zero-tariff access for 100 percent of African imports into China beginning May 1, and the nearly 600 events that will take place under the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, aiming at strengthening cultural ties and deepening mutual understanding between the peoples of China and Africa.
The move, according to Wang, reflects China’s commitment to high-standard opening-up, aiming to expand trade, deliver greater benefits to African people and provide wider access to opportunities in the Chinese market.
He reiterated China’s commitment to work with African countries to draw inspiration from their rich civilizational heritage and further strengthen bonds between their peoples for generations to come. (GSF)
