Africa – Chinese Relations
Addis Ababa (January 25, 2024) : Prior to the upcoming 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the 11th Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) conference, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a Visit to Africa that sends a strong signal about the future trajectory of Africa-China collaboration.
According to Xinhua, Chinese state news agency, Foreign Minister Wang visited Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Cรดte dโIvoire and his diplomatic journey holds significant importance in the context of the broader Africa-China engagement.
โAfrica is a continent full of hope, and China is willing to provide Africa with all-round support in pursuing modernization,โ the Minister also underscored the purposes of the visit he made from January 13 to 18.
As to Africa China Centre, beyond the formal platforms of FOCAC and BRI, the visit of the Foreign Minister not only serves as a dynamic channel to deepen bilateral cooperation, address issues of mutual benefit, and set the stage for a future characterized by strengthened diplomatic ties but also sends powerful signals regarding the future trajectory of Africa-China collaboration.
The center also indicated that the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC 2024) will reflectes a renewed commitment to enhancing collaboration between China and Africa as well as a year of accountability, where the outcomes of various initiatives in the Africa-China space are expected to come under review and the way forward discussed.
The Ministerโs 11th annual visit to Africa as part of the established tradition marks the 34th consecutive year that the continent has been the chosen destination for Chinese ministerโs first overseas visit.
FOCAC 2024 take place in Beijing during President Xi Jinpingโs third term, will mark a turning point in the dynamic landscape of China and Africa relations,
ย Chinese Diplomatic relations
During the recent visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister to Africa, the opportunity came to review diplomatic ties, focusing on key areas like economy, infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, and culture.
The China-Togo relationship, spanning over half a century as well as Wangโs visit to Tunisia which coincided with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Tunisia, was highlighted for Chinaโs firm support and continuous enhancement of political mutual trust.
Meanwhile, with Cote dโIvoire, the emphasis was on their friendship and partnership for development, with tangible results in mutually beneficial cooperation. Notably, Chinaโs contribution to Cote dโIvoire as it hosts the 34th Africa Cup of Nations showcasing the diverse facets of collaboration. Egypt was also congratulated on becoming a new member of BRICS.
Economic Cooperation and Development
Minister Wang Yiโs discussions in each country focused on strengthening economic ties and promoting development initiatives. Discussions revolve around enhancing trade volumes, diversifying trade products, and promoting investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture and the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative placing a renewed emphasis on environmental sustainability.
Chinese Role In Peace Building and Stability
The visit also showcased Chinaโs commitment to promoting peace and stability in the African continent. Minister Wang Yi emphasized Chinaโs support for African-led initiatives and its willingness to contribute to resolving regional conflicts.
In Egypt, hot-spot issues especially the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in the Gaza Strip, and its spillover in the region such as the Red Sea turmoil was highly discussed, agreeing on the need for an immediate cease-fire and preventing further conflict escalation as Egypt has been playing a pivotal role in mediating the conflicts and brokering ceasefire deals.
Minister Yi emphasized on the fact that China will firmly support Africa in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and national dignity, and support African countries in seeking strength through unity and exploring a development path with African characteristics that accelerates its development while maintaining independence and stability.
Western View Points of the Visit
Western Analysts ย on the other hand say that the countriesโ chosen for Wangโs trip are in areas experiencing a decline of Western influence and therefore good territory for China to make inroads.
They said that China wants to have a more prominent role on the international stage in terms of the Israel-Hamas war. It is pushing very hard and working with the Global South countries around the Gaza crisis. โWang Yi’s first stop would be Egypt, given its potential to play a role in reducing tensions in the Middle East,โ they assert.
โChina has invested a lot in Egypt through its infrastructure-building Belt and Road Initiative and is building the countryโs new capital. Egypt also became a member of the BRICS group of emerging nations.โ
Implications and Future Prospects
ย The Africa China Center pointed out that the fact that Africa has been the chosen destination for Chinaโs ministers first overseas visit for 34 consecutive years showcases the importance China places on its diplomatic ties with African countries.
This illustrates that China-Africa friendship has withstood challenges, rooted in past accomplishments, and is poised for a promising future. It demonstrates Chinaโs commitment to maintaining and deepening its relationship with the continent, highlighting the long-standing and enduring nature of their partnership.
Wang Yiโs annual tour to Africa not only reinforces the long-standing diplomatic relationship between China and Africa but also signals Chinaโs dedication to further collaboration and cooperation. The visit holds significant implications for the future trajectory of Africa-China relations.
The visit underscores a commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation between China and the African nations visited and even Africa as a whole. By reviewing diplomatic ties in crucial areas such as the economy, infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, and culture, both parties signal their dedication to fostering multifaceted collaboration and indicates China interest in real results.
Also, the emphasis on continuous enhancement of political mutual trust, as seen in the case of China and Togo, suggests a commitment to a stable and supportive political relationship. This trust forms the foundation for deeper cooperation in various domains.
The commitment to advancing pragmatic cooperation and opening up new prospects for bilateral relations, guided by the consensus reached by the heads of state, implies a forward-looking approach. Both parties are signaling a commitment to exploring new opportunities and adapting their collaboration to evolving circumstances. China envisions future collaboration in emerging fields such as green development, digitalization, and healthcare. As Africaโs economic and technological landscapes undergo transformation, China aims to support its partners in leveraging these opportunities and achieving sustainable development.
The discussions underscored a shared vision for development, focusing on economic growth, and sustainable development. Chinaโs commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative aligns with Africaโs aspirations for infrastructure development and economic transformation.
Minister Wang Yi visit to Africa signify a commitment to strengthening trade relations, infrastructure development, and investment in African countries. This will lead to increased Chinese investments in sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy, which will contribute to economic growth in both China and Africa.
Chinaโs engagement with multiple African nations reflects a commitment to diversifying and deepening its partnerships on the continent. This strategy promotes inclusivity and allows for a more comprehensive and robust collaboration in various fields.
By visiting countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Cรดte dโIvoire, Minister Wang Yiโs visit extends beyond traditional partnerships, reflecting Chinaโs intention to engage a diverse range of African nations.
This highlights Chinaโs recognition of Africaโs growing importance on the global stage and its desire to forge stronger relationships with a broader array of African states.
Acknowledging Chinaโs contribution to a football tournament demonstrates the diversification of collaboration beyond traditional diplomatic spheres. This cultural and sporting engagement highlights a more comprehensive approach to cooperation.