Officials from the African Union and Ethiopia have praised China's consistent commitment and influence in fostering peace and security throughout Africa. Frederic Gateretse-Ngoga, a senior advisor at the AU Commission, emphasized in a recent interview with Xinhua that China has played a crucial role in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacekeeping efforts across the continent. He noted that China's contributions extend beyond mere financial support, encompassing logistical assistance and the provision of equipment for AU-led peace operations.
Ngoga highlighted the recent endorsement of a joint AU-UN roadmap for peace operations in Africa, with China being a key financial supporter in alignment with its policy of backing AU peacekeeping initiatives. He expressed the AU's eagerness to collaborate with China on emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and climate security, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and shared accountability.
Yonas Adaye, a commissioner with the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, added that China's involvement in UN peacekeeping has notably increased over the last twenty years, underscoring the need for enhanced strategic cooperation to address the fragile geopolitical landscape and protect Africa's valuable natural resources through advanced technologies.
Yonas emphasized that China's advancements in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity position it as a key player on the global stage, particularly in its collaboration with Africa. This partnership is crucial for fostering comprehensive and inclusive growth across the continent, ensuring that development reaches all sectors of society.
During the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit held in Beijing, China took significant steps to strengthen its strategic alliances with numerous African nations. This initiative not only highlights China's commitment to the region but also underscores the potential for transformative progress through shared technological advancements.