Chinese President Xi Jinping last week announced initiatives to deepen China-Africa relations at the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). In his keynote speech, Xi outlined 10 partnership actions to be implemented over three years, aimed at advancing modernization in Africa and elevating bilateral relations.
Xi proposed raising China-Africa relations to a strategic level and characterizing them as an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.” He emphasized that modernization is an “inalienable right” and that global progress cannot happen without the development of China and Africa. Xi stressed the joint efforts of both regions will create a wave of modernization across the Global South, as cited by a Xinhua dispatch.
Xi’s proposals were well-received. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised China’s long-standing friendship with Africa and emphasized the need for continued cooperation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called China-Africa ties a key part of South-South cooperation, noting China’s development experience could offer valuable lessons for Africa.
According to Xinhua, Xi’s 10 partnership actions focus on trade, infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, green development, and security.
On mutual learning, Xi announced plans to establish 25 centers focused on China-Africa studies. China will invite 1,000 members of African political parties to visit for governance exchanges.
In trade, Xi pledged zero-tariff treatment for 100% of products from the least developed African nations with diplomatic ties to China, benefiting 33 African countries.
China will also establish a China-Africa digital technology cooperation center and launch 20 digital projects. Xi committed to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Africa through empowerment programs.
Infrastructure is another major focus. China will implement 30 connectivity projects under the Belt and Road Initiative and 1,000 small livelihood projects to improve everyday life.
In health, China will send 2,000 medical personnel and establish joint medical centers. In agriculture, China will provide 1 billion yuan in emergency food assistance and send 500 experts, aiming to create 1 million jobs in Africa.
China committed to 30 clean energy projects and cooperation in space exploration.
Regarding security, Xi announced 1 billion yuan in military assistance and proposed building a partnership to implement the Global Security Initiative in Africa.
To support these initiatives, Xi revealed that China will provide 360 billion yuan over the next three years. The summit concluded with a joint declaration to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future and a three-year action plan.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye praised Xi’s proposals, saying they demonstrate China’s commitment to elevating cooperation with Africa to new heights. These initiatives reflect China’s dedication to fostering stronger ties with the continent, the state news agency concluded. MDT/Xinhua
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