China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, has kicked off 2025 with a traditional visit to Africa, marking 35 years of prioritizing the continent in China's foreign policy. Following the successful Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) last September, this trip to Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria reaffirms China's unwavering commitment to Africa and the Global South.
The deep-rooted China-Africa friendship, forged in mutual respect and shared aspirations for development, dates back decades. China's support for Africa's independence struggles and subsequent development efforts has been unwavering. The FOCAC Beijing Summit elevated China-Africa relations to a strategic level, establishing an "all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future."
Contrary to some narratives, China-Africa cooperation is not transactional. It focuses on long-term, sustainable partnerships that benefit both sides. Initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063, have delivered tangible results, from infrastructure projects like the Lekki Deep Sea Port in Nigeria to educational programs like Luban Workshops.
Namibia exemplifies the strength of China-Africa ties. Their comprehensive strategic partnership, built on a foundation of mutual support dating back to Namibia's independence struggle, continues to flourish. Joint projects in education, infrastructure, and other key sectors have brought significant benefits to the Namibian people.
As Africa embarks on a journey towards greater prosperity, China will remain a steadfast partner. In an era of global uncertainty, stronger China-Africa cooperation offers stability and contributes positively to global development. Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit provides a crucial platform to further strengthen this enduring friendship and chart a course for a shared future.