On September 2, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with a number of African heads of state who were in Beijing to attend the summit meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Meeting with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, Xi Jinping pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic relations more than 30 years ago, China and Eritrea have always trusted and supported each other firmly. President Isaias Afwerki paid a state visit to China in May last year, during which positive progress was made in the important common understandings between the two heads of state. China appreciates Eritrea’s adherence to an independent foreign policy, its efforts to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and dignity, and its strategic and long-term perspective for viewing China-Eritrea relations. He stressed that China and Eritrea should be good brothers having a heart-to-heart affinity, good partners for mutual benefit and win-win results, and good friends for safeguarding fairness and justice.
Noting that he first visited China 57 years ago [when he was one of a number of young Eritrean freedom fighters invited to receive military and political training in China], Isaias Afwerki said that over the past half century and more, he has witnessed firsthand China’s great development achievements and transformative changes. China plays an important role in the world and has increasingly become a key force leading global governance reform. The Eritrea-China relationship is characterised by a long history, solid friendship, sound cooperation, and common understanding on many issues. Its cooperation with China is helping and will continue to help African countries achieve greater development, resist colonialism and hegemonism, and gain equality and dignity in the international community. Eritrea stays committed to the one-China policy and hopes to deepen cooperation with China in such fields as energy, infrastructure and maritime affairs.
President Afwerki also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang the next day.
Li Qiang pointed out that under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, China is ready to work with Eritrea to further expand trade exchanges, deepen cooperation in areas such as mining, agriculture, infrastructure and education, tap into the potential of cooperation in clean energy, blue economy and other areas, and create new growth drivers for bilateral cooperation.
Isaias Afwerki said that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has achieved remarkable development achievements, playing an exemplary role in maintaining world peace and stability and supporting Africa’s development and revitalisation, which Eritrea highly appreciates. Eritrea is ready to take the opportunity of deepening the strategic partnership with China to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as infrastructure construction, mining and agriculture, with a view to elevate Eritrea-China and Africa-China relations to higher levels in the new era, work together to tackle global challenges, jointly oppose hegemonism, and make greater contributions to human development and progress as well as international fairness and justice.
Meeting with Malian President Colonel Assimi Goïta, the two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Mali relationship to a strategic partnership. Xi Jinping pointed out that the China-Mali friendship was personally forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries. Sixty years ago, the two sides issued a joint communique, which for the first time included China’s eight principles in foreign aid, advocating respect for national sovereignty, development of an independent economy and non-interference in internal affairs. These principles not only serve as a guide for the long-term friendly cooperation between China and Mali, but also set the tone for China-Africa cooperation in promoting the establishment of a new international order. [Mali, under the leadership of socialist President Modibo Keïta, established diplomatic relations with China on October 25 1960, shortly after winning independence from French colonial rule on September 22 that year. The Eight Principles to govern China’s foreign economic and technical assistance were put forward by Premier Zhou Enlai in Mali in early 1964 during his December 1963-February 1964 visit to 10 African countries. They are:
China always bases itself on the principle of equality and mutual benefit in providing aid to other nations.
China never attaches any conditions or asks for any privileges.
China helps lighten the burden of recipient countries as much as possible.
China aims at helping recipient countries to gradually achieve self-reliance and independent development.
China strives to develop aid projects that require less investment but yield quicker results.
China provides the best-quality equipment and materials of its own manufacture.
In providing technical assistance, China shall see to it that the personnel of the recipient country fully master such techniques.
The Chinese experts are not allowed to make any special demands or enjoy any special amenities.]
Colonel Assimi Goïta said that the people of Mali and China enjoy a brotherly friendship and bilateral cooperation is sincere and pragmatic. He thanked China for providing various and valuable assistance to Mali’s economic and social development. Mali hopes to further consolidate the friendship with China, elevate the strategic partnership, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in agriculture, energy, mining, security and other areas. Both Mali and China respect national sovereignty and independence and oppose interference in other countries’ internal affairs. Mali appreciates China’s efforts and contributions to promote regional and world peace and development and looks forward to closer multilateral cooperation with China.
Meeting Felix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Xi Jinping noted that they had jointly elevated the China-DRC relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in May last year. Many common understandings reached between the two heads of state then have been implemented. Bilateral practical cooperation in various fields has advanced by leaps and bounds, benefiting both sides.
Felix Tshisekedi said, the DRC and China are brothers with solid and sincere friendship. Based on equality, respect and a high degree of mutual trust, bilateral cooperation has achieved mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The DRC side admires President Xi Jinping’s outstanding leadership and hopes to learn from China’s successful experience, take China as a top priority partner for cooperation, and to continuously deepen friendship and practical cooperation in various fields. He thanked China for supporting the DRC in safeguarding its national sovereignty and independence.
President Azali Assoumani of the Comoros and Xi Jinping announced the elevation of the China-Comoros relationship to a strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping pointed out that China was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with the Comoros, and next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. They have firmly supported each other politically and achieved fruitful results in practical cooperation in various fields, setting a fine example of equality, solidarity and cooperation between countries of different sizes. Although China and the Comoros are far apart, the people of the two countries share the same aspiration for a better life. Xi Jinping said that he heard that the Chinese TV series ‘Minning Town’ was recently aired in the Comoros. China is ready to carry out cooperation with the Comoros in poverty reduction, support the Comorian people in turning their geographical advantages and marine resources into momentum for development, and continue the cooperative partnership, as the ‘Minning Town’ has shown, to build a China-Comoros community with a shared future. [All 23 episodes of this moving story of overcoming poverty can be viewed on YouTube with English subtitles.] China is ready to continue to cooperate with the Comoros to implement the rapid malaria eradication program and help the Comoros achieve the goal of “eradicating malaria by 2025” at an early date.
Xi Jinping appreciated the positive role the Comoros played during its rotating chairmanship of the African Union. He pointed out that China is ready to work with the Comoros to uphold the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance communication and coordination within the frameworks of the African Union, the League of Arab States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, strengthen the emerging forces of the Global South and promote the reform of the global governance system.
Meeting President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh, Xi Jinping noted that his guest had attended all the summits held by FOCAC since its inception and that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Djibouti. Xi Jinping stressed that over the past 45 years, China and Djibouti have stood side by side in weal and woe, enjoyed mutually beneficial economic cooperation and mutual understanding between the two peoples, setting a good example of South-South cooperation. China is ready to support Djibouti in operating the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, the international free trade area and other projects, so as to establish a commercial, trade and logistics hub in the region.
Ismail Omar Guelleh said that every time he visits China he feels at home and he thanks the Chinese side for its thoughtful and warm arrangements. He further thanked China for providing valuable assistance to Djibouti’s economic development and improvement of people’s livelihood. The Djiboutian side is satisfied with the vitality of bilateral relations and is ready to continue to push forward important projects like the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway with China and further deepen practical cooperation in various fields.
President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan and Xi Jinping announced the elevation of the China-Seychelles relationship to a strategic partnership. The Chinese leader said that China-Seychelles relations are a model of sincere friendship, equality, mutual assistance, and win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes. Seychelles is welcome to continue participating in the China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Development Cooperation, accelerate the sustainable development of marine resources, and translate the potential of its blue economy into a driving force for development. China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Seychelles in emergency response and disaster prevention and mitigation, supports the country in combating piracy and other illegal activities, supports the opening of direct flights between China and Seychelles, and encourages two-way tourism between the two countries.
Wavel Ramkalawan said the friendship between Seychelles and China is based on mutual respect, mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and bilateral relations have always maintained sound development. He thanked China for providing valuable assistance in various fields to Seychelles. Thanks to Chinese vaccines, Seychelles has quickly overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed economic and social development. Seychelles admires President Xi Jinping’s extraordinary vision and major initiatives and is willing to continue to firmly support each other and be true friends with China. He looks forward to the opening of direct flights from Chengdu to Seychelles to further promote the friendship between the two countries and welcomes the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy hospital ship ‘Peace Ark’ to visit Seychelles again.
Xi Jinping remarked to President of Guinea Mamadi Doumbouya that his country was the first in sub-Saharan Africa to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China and next month will mark the 65th anniversary. Over the past 65 years, the two sides have adhered to mutual respect and supported each other in pursuing independence. They have upheld equality and mutual benefit and carried out practical cooperation with no political strings attached. They have stood by each other and provided mutual support in times of difficulty.
Xi Jinping emphasised that strengthening solidarity and cooperation with Africa and other developing countries is the cornerstone of China’s diplomacy. FOCAC is not only an effective mechanism for promoting practical cooperation between China and Africa, but also a banner for South-South cooperation. China is ready to work closely with Guinea to make the summit a complete success, pool the strength of the Global South and promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.
Mamadi Doumbouya said that it is a great honour to come to China for the FOCAC Beijing Summit. Guinea was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. Guinea stays committed to the one-China policy and recognises that there is only one China in the world, that is, the People’s Republic of China. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has made great achievements in development, and China’s advanced development concepts and successful experience are important references for Guinea.
Xi Jinping and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe jointly announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
According to an unofficial translation from People’s Daily, Xi said that “China firmly supports Africa’s unity, self-reliance, and integration process. This summit of the forum is committed to charting a new blueprint for China-Africa cooperation and holds milestone significance in the history of China-Africa relation. In the new era, China-Togo relations have deepened, demonstrating resilience and vitality.”
Gnassingbe said that “Togo-China cooperation is based on mutual respect and the solid foundation of shared development, making it strategic in nature. Togo’s friendly exchanges and cooperation with China have strongly promoted Togo’s capacity building and national development. Togo looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in areas such as infrastructure, technology, and the digital economy.”
We previously reported on President Xi’s September 2 meeting with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa. The same day Ramaphosa also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Li Qiang pointed out that China is ready to strengthen the synergy of development strategies with South Africa, take high-quality Belt and Road cooperation as a guide, accelerate the implementation of the 10 Years Strategic Programme on Cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa (2020-2029), give full play to the role of the Bi-National Commission and other mechanisms, expand cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, new energy, sci-tech innovation and other fields, and constantly consolidate and deepen bilateral trade and investment cooperation. China is ready to import more quality products from South Africa and hopes that South Africa will continue to provide a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business. The two sides should ensure the success of the fourth meeting of the China-South Africa High-level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism, advance cooperation in culture, tourism, education, youth, poverty reduction and other fields, and consolidate the popular support for the friendship between the two countries.
Cyril Ramaphosa said that the peoples of South Africa and China enjoy time-honoured friendship, and the current bilateral relations witness a strong momentum of development. South Africa always regards China as its most trustworthy friend and most important strategic partner. The elevation of bilateral relations once again confirms the uniqueness of South Africa-China relations.
The South African online newspaper Daily Maverick reported that a further result of Ramaphosa’s trip this time was to strengthen the commitment of certain parties in South Africa’s recently formed Government of National Unity to the one-China policy. According to the paper:
“Ramaphosa hailed as another achievement of his trip that he was able to reassure Xi that the Government of National Unity (GNU) will not deviate from the one-China policy which the SA government had been following.
“He said he informed Xi that even the leader of one of the other parties in the GNU ‘who initially was not so well disposed to one-China policy, having visited China for the very first time and for the very first time as one of my ministers, publicly said that he now subscribes and embraces a one China policy. And President Xi Jinping was rather pleased with that.’
“Ramaphosa did not name the minister but was clearly referring to DA [the neoliberal and still largely white-dominated party that is the second largest in the GNU] leader and Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, who told Bloomberg News while he was in China that he didn’t think the GNU would change SA’s China policy, and that ‘the South African government subscribes to the one-China policy'”.
The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
Xi Jinping Meets with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the afternoon of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Xi Jinping pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic relations more than 30 years ago, China and Eritrea have always trusted and supported each other firmly. President Isaias Afwerki paid a state visit to China in May last year, during which positive progress was made in the important common understandings between the two heads of state. China appreciates Eritrea’s adherence to an independent foreign policy, its efforts to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and dignity, and its strategic and long-term perspective for viewing China-Eritrea relations. China is ready to deepen political mutual trust, advance practical cooperation and achieve common development with Eritrea.
Xi Jinping stressed that China and Eritrea should be good brothers having a heart-to-heart affinity, good partners for mutual benefit and win-win results, and good friends for safeguarding fairness and justice. China is ready to strengthen exchanges at all levels and share state governance experience with Eritrea, leverage initiatives and institutional platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative, FOCAC and the “Initiative of Peaceful Development in the Horn of Africa”, deepen cooperation in energy, infrastructure and agriculture, and help with Eritrea’s industrialization and agricultural modernization. China and Eritrea share similar views on many major international and regional issues. China is ready to maintain coordination and cooperation with Eritrea to better safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and work for a more just and equitable international order.
Noting that he first visited China 57 years ago, Isaias Afwerki said that over the past half century and more, he has witnessed firsthand China’s great development achievements and transformative changes. China plays an important role in the world and has increasingly become a key force leading global governance reform. The Eritrea-China relationship is characterized by a long history, solid friendship, sound cooperation, and common understanding on many issues. Its cooperation with China is helping and will continue to help African countries achieve greater development, resist colonialism and hegemonism, and gain equality and dignity in the international community. Eritrea stays committed to the one-China policy and hopes to deepen cooperation with China in such fields as energy, infrastructure and maritime affairs. Africa-China cooperation plays a significant role in guiding international cooperation with Africa. Eritrea wishes the FOCAC summit a success and hopes it will help African countries overcome challenges and difficulties, gain more development opportunities, and achieve security, stability and sustainable development, so as to benefit all people in Africa.
During the summit, China and Eritrea will sign bilateral cooperation documents in agriculture, radio, television and other fields.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Li Qiang Meets with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the morning of September 3, 2024, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing.
Li Qiang said that in recent years, under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Eritrea relations have developed rapidly. President Xi Jinping met with President Isaias Afwerki yesterday and made further plans and arrangements for the development of bilateral relations and cooperation. China is ready to work with Eritrea to follow through on the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, carry forward the traditional friendship, deepen political mutual trust, firmly support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthen the synergy of development strategies, and continuously deepen and substantiate the China-Eritrea strategic partnership, so as to provide more impetus for their respective modernization efforts and continuously enhance the well-being of the two peoples.
Li Qiang pointed out that under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, China is ready to work with Eritrea to further expand trade exchanges, deepen cooperation in areas such as mining, agriculture, infrastructure and education, tap into the potential of cooperation in clean energy, blue economy and other areas, and create new growth drivers for bilateral cooperation. The two sides should maintain close coordination in multilateral fields, jointly safeguard the interests of developing countries, and uphold international fairness and justice. China firmly supports Africa in becoming an important pole in the world’s political, economic and civilizational development, and stands ready to work with Eritrea and other African countries, as true friends and partners on the path of common development, to implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Summit and strive to build a high-level China-Eritrea and China-Africa community with a shared future.
Isaias Afwerki said that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has achieved remarkable development achievements, playing an exemplary role in maintaining world peace and stability and supporting Africa’s development and revitalization, which Eritrea highly appreciates. Eritrea firmly abides by the one-China principle and firmly supports China’s positions on the Taiwan question and issues related to Xinjiang, Xizang, Hong Kong and the South China Sea, and resolutely opposes interference in China’s internal affairs and containment of China’s development. Eritrea is ready to take the opportunity of deepening the strategic partnership with China to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as infrastructure construction, mining and agriculture, with a view to elevate Eritrea-China and Africa-China relations to higher levels in the new era, work together to tackle global challenges, jointly oppose hegemonism, and make greater contributions to human development and progress as well as international fairness and justice. Eritrea is ready to make joint efforts with China to ensure the complete success of the FOCAC Summit.
Wu Zhenglong was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with Malian President Colonel Assimi Goïta
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the morning of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with Malian President Colonel Assimi Goïta, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Mali relationship to a strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping pointed out that the China-Mali friendship was personally forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries. Sixty years ago, the two sides issued a joint communique, which for the first time included China’s eight principles in foreign aid, advocating respect for national sovereignty, development of an independent economy and non-interference in internal affairs. These principles not only serve as a guide for the long-term friendly cooperation between China and Mali, but also set the tone for China-Africa cooperation in promoting the establishment of a new international order. Under the current circumstances, China is ready to carry forward traditional friendship with Mali, continue to firmly support each other, and provide support within its capacity for Mali’s economic development and improvement of people’s livelihood. China will continue to encourage Chinese companies to invest in Mali, and deepen cooperation in agriculture, energy, mineral development, infrastructure construction and other fields. China hopes that Mali will provide security guarantees and policy facilitation for Chinese companies.
Xi Jinping stressed that China has always supported the African people in independently deciding their future and destiny, and is ready to work with Mali and other African countries to support each other and jointly pursue modernization paths suited to their respective national conditions. This FOCAC summit is dedicated to drawing a new blueprint for China-Africa cooperation in the new era, advancing modernization together, and building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future. China is ready to work with Mali and other parties to make the summit a complete success.
Colonel Assimi Goïta thanked China for hosting this FOCAC summit and for the warm and friendly reception. The people of Mali and China enjoy a brotherly friendship and bilateral cooperation is sincere and pragmatic. He thanked China for providing various and valuable assistance to Mali’s economic and social development. Mali hopes to further consolidate the friendship with China, elevate the strategic partnership, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in agriculture, energy, mining, security and other areas. There is but one China in the world, and Mali firmly pursues the one-China principle. Both Mali and China respect national sovereignty and independence and oppose interference in other countries’ internal affairs. Mali appreciates China’s efforts and contributions to promoting regional and world peace and development and looks forward to closer multilateral cooperation with China.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the morning of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Felix Tshisekedi, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Xi Jinping welcomed Felix Tshisekedi to attend the FOCAC Beijing Summit. Xi Jinping noted that he and Tshisekedi jointly elevated the China-DRC relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in May last year. Many common understandings reached between the two heads of state then have been implemented. Bilateral practical cooperation in various fields has advanced by leaps and bounds, benefiting both sides. It is of strategic significance and serves as a model for developing countries to jointly advance modernization. China is comprehensively advancing Chinese modernization with high-quality development, while the DRC is entering a new stage of national development and revitalization. The two countries are partners on the path to modernization and should be sincere friends with common ideals and beliefs, mutually beneficial partners, and good friends working together for peace. China supports the DRC in safeguarding national sovereignty and realizing independent development, and is ready to consolidate political mutual trust with the DRC, firmly support each other, seek common development, deepen cooperation in agriculture, mineral products processing, vocational training and other fields, and continue to help the DRC turn its resource advantage into momentum for development.
Xi Jinping stressed that at the summit, China and Africa will define the new positioning of China-Africa relations, announce a series of major measures to jointly advance modernization, and draw a new blueprint together for the growth of China-Africa relations. China is ready to work with the DRC to seize historic opportunities, strengthen strategic mutual trust, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, join hands to promote China-Africa cooperation, jointly safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and encourage countries in the “Global South” to pursue peace and development in a changing world.
Felix Tshisekedi said, the DRC and China are brothers with solid and sincere friendship. Based on equality, respect and a high degree of mutual trust, bilateral cooperation has achieved mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The DRC side admires President Xi Jinping’s outstanding leadership and hopes to learn from China’s successful experience, take China as a top priority partner for cooperation, and continuously deepen friendship and practical cooperation in various fields. He thanked China for supporting the DRC in safeguarding its national sovereignty and independence. The DRC firmly pursues the one-China policy and recognizes Taiwan as an inalienable part of China’s territory. The FOCAC has provided an important opportunity for African countries to realize their development dreams. He expressed the belief that the summit will be a complete success and deliver more tangible results to the people of African countries.
During the summit, China and the DRC will sign a number of bilateral cooperation documents in areas such as economic partnership for common development, human resources development, customs capacity building, and press.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with Comorian President Azali Assoumani
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the morning of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Comorian President Azali Assoumani, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Comoros relationship to a strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping pointed out that China was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with the Comoros, and next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The two countries have firmly supported each other politically and achieved fruitful results in practical cooperation in various fields, setting a fine example of equality, solidarity and cooperation between countries of different sizes. Although China and the Comoros are far apart, the people of the two countries share the same aspiration for a better life. Xi Jinping said that he heard that the Chinese TV series “Minning Town” was recently aired in the Comoros. China is ready to carry out cooperation with the Comoros in poverty reduction, support the Comorian people in turning their geographical advantages and marine resources into momentum for development, and continue the cooperative partnership as the “Minning Town” has shown to build a China-Comoros community with a shared future. China is ready to continue to cooperate with the Comoros to implement the rapid malaria eradication program and help the Comoros achieve the goal of “eradicating malaria by 2025” at an early date. The two sides should take this summit as an opportunity to expand practical cooperation in such areas as economy, trade, investment, infrastructure, marine fisheries and climate change, and inject new momentum into the development of bilateral relations.
Xi Jinping appreciated the positive role the Comoros played during its rotating chairmanship of the African Union. He pointed out that China is ready to work with the Comoros to uphold the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance communication and coordination within the frameworks of the African Union, the League of Arab States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, strengthen the emerging forces of the “Global South” and promote the reform of the global governance system.
Azali Assoumani thanked the Chinese side for the fraternal friendly reception and congratulated China on the successful convening of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. He expressed the belief that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China will surely make greater achievements in development. The vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, the Belt and Road Initiative and the three global initiatives put forward by President Xi Jinping are crucial to promoting the world in realizing peace, development and common prosperity, and the Comoros fully supports them. The Comoros is ready to consolidate and enhance friendly relations with China and make bilateral relations a model for Africa-China cooperation. He expressed the belief that this FOCAC summit will further boost the development of African countries. The Comoros supports China in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and supports China in achieving national reunification. The Comoros believes that Taiwan is bound to return to China. He thanked China for supporting the Comoros in performing its rotating chairmanship of the African Union and expressed willingness to work with the Chinese side for closer communication and coordination within multilateral frameworks, promote developing countries to strengthen solidarity and cooperation, and resolve regional conflicts through dialogue.
During the summit, China and the Comoros will sign bilateral cooperation documents covering such areas as economy, trade and development.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the morning of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Djibouti relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping pointed out that President Ismail Omar Guelleh has attended all the summits held by the FOCAC since its inception and is a witness and facilitator of the forum’s growth. Xi Jinping said he highly appreciated this and is ready to work closely with Ismail Omar Guelleh to make this summit a complete success.
Noting that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Djibouti, Xi Jinping stressed that over the past 45 years, China and Djibouti have stood side by side in weal and woe, enjoyed mutually beneficial economic cooperation and mutual understanding between the two peoples, setting a good example of South-South cooperation. China is ready to work with Djibouti to carry forward the fine tradition of mutual support, leverage the valuable experience of mutual learning, tighten the bond of interests for win-win cooperation, build important consensus on peaceful coexistence and push for more new achievements in bilateral relations. China is ready to support Djibouti in operating the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, international free trade area and other projects, to establish a commercial, trade and logistics hub in the region. China is also ready to work with Djibouti to operate Africa’s first Luban Workshop, so as to help Djibouti cultivate more high-quality personnel needed for economic development. China supports Djibouti in fulfilling its responsibilities as the rotating presidency of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to make new contributions to peace and development in the Horn of Africa and the African region at large.
Ismail Omar Guelleh said that every time he visits China he feels at home and he thanks the Chinese side for its thoughtful and warm arrangements. The Djibouti-China relationship has gone through 45 years, which has been accompanied by the rapid development of China and Djibouti-China relations. He thanked China for providing valuable assistance to Djibouti’s economic development and improvement of people’s livelihood. The Djiboutian side is satisfied with the vitality of bilateral relations and is ready to continue to push forward important projects like the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway with China and further deepen practical cooperation in various fields. Under the current international and regional situations, Djibouti looks forward to strengthening communication and coordination with China and making joint efforts to promote regional security and development. Ismail Omar Guelleh expressed the belief that the FOCAC Beijing Summit will be a complete success and further boost the development of African countries.
During the summit, China and Djibouti will sign cooperation documents covering such areas as economy, trade, development, aviation and aerospace.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the afternoon of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Seychelles relationship to a strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping pointed out that China and Seychelles are located at the two ends of the vast ocean, and have established a strong friendship across mountains and seas through friendly exchanges. China-Seychelles relations are a model of sincere friendship, equality, mutual assistance, and win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes. The two countries should continue to prioritize supporting each other’s core interests and major concerns, and adhere to strategic mutual trust, common development, common security, and traditional friendship. Seychelles is welcome to continue participating in the China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Development Cooperation, accelerate the sustainable development of marine resources, and translate the potential of its blue economy into a driving force for development. China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Seychelles in emergency response and disaster prevention and mitigation, supports the country in combating piracy and other illegal activities, supports the opening of direct flights between China and Seychelles, and encourages two-way tourism between the two countries. More excellent Seychelles students are welcome to study in China and carry forward the friendly cause between the two countries.
Xi Jinping emphasized that China-Africa cooperation adheres to mutual benefit and win-win results, keeps pace with the times, and always takes the lead in international cooperation with Africa. FOCAC has driven remarkable achievements in China-Africa cooperation since its establishment 24 years ago. China is ready to work with Seychelles and other parties to ensure the success of this summit and push for more golden fruits of China-Africa cooperation.
Wavel Ramkalawan said the friendship between Seychelles and China is based on mutual respect, mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and bilateral relations have always maintained sound development. He thanked China for providing various valuable assistance to Seychelles. Thanks to Chinese vaccines, Seychelles has quickly overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed economic and social development. Seychelles admires President Xi Jinping’s extraordinary vision and major initiatives, and is willing to continue to firmly support each other and be true friends with China. Seychelles firmly pursues the one-China policy and supports China in achieving national reunification. Seychelles is willing to deepen exchanges and cooperation with China in various fields and enhance international collaboration. Wavel Ramkalawan looks forward to the opening of direct flights from Chengdu to Seychelles to further promote the friendship between the two countries, and welcomes the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy hospital ship “Peace Ark” to visit Seychelles again. He wishes the FOCAC Beijing Summit a complete success.
During the summit, China and Seychelles will sign a number of bilateral cooperation documents, including those related to Belt and Road cooperation plans and sub-national cooperation.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Xi Jinping Meets with Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the evening of September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Xi Jinping pointed out that Guinea was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China and next month will mark the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Over the past 65 years, the two sides have adhered to mutual respect and supported each other in pursuing independence. They have upheld equality and mutual benefit, and carried out practical cooperation with no political strings attached. They have stood by each other and provided mutual support in times of difficulty. China is ready to work with Guinea to foster and carry forward the traditional friendship between the two countries and continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns. Xi Jinping called on the two sides to work together to deliver on the major measures to be launched at this summit, strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, resource development, rural development, poverty reduction and medical and health care, and help Guinea translate its resource advantages into drivers for development so that the China-Guinea comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership will deliver more benefits to the two peoples.
Xi Jinping emphasized that strengthening solidarity and cooperation with Africa and other developing countries is the cornerstone of China’s diplomacy. FOCAC is not only an effective mechanism for promoting practical cooperation between China and Africa, but also a banner for South-South cooperation. China is ready to work closely with Guinea to make the summit a complete success, pool the strength of the Global South and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Mamadi Doumbouya said that it is a great honor to come to China for the FOCAC Beijing Summit. Guinea was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. Guinea stays committed to the one-China policy and recognizes that there is only one China in the world, that is, the People’s Republic of China. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has made great achievements in development, and China’s advanced development concepts and successful experience are important references for Guinea. He thanked China for providing valuable support for Guinea’s economic and social development, saying that the investment and cooperation of Chinese enterprises in Guinea has promoted economic development and improved people’s livelihood in Guinea, setting a fine example of mutual benefit and win-win results. The Guinean side believes that the FOCAC summit will be a success and foster more fruitful cooperation in infrastructure, energy, mining, transportation, tourism and other fields.
Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
Li Qiang Meets with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa
Sep 2 (MFA) — On the afternoon of September 2, 2024, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and for a state visit, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing.
Li Qiang said that President Xi Jinping held talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa and jointly announced the elevation of bilateral relations to an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era, opening a new chapter in building a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future. This not only conforms to the fundamental interests of the two countries, but also holds significant importance to the reform and improvement of the global governance system and the development and growth of the Global South. China is ready to make joint efforts with South Africa to implement the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, and promote the stable and sound development of China-South Africa relations and cooperation.
Li Qiang pointed out that China is ready to strengthen the synergy of development strategies with South Africa, take high-quality Belt and Road cooperation as a guide, accelerate the implementation of the 10 Years Strategic Programme on Cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa (2020-2029), give full play to the role of the Bi-National Commission and other mechanisms, expand cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, new energy, sci-tech innovation and other fields, and constantly consolidate and deepen bilateral trade and investment cooperation. China is ready to import more quality products from South Africa and hopes that South Africa will continue to provide a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in South Africa. The two sides should ensure the success of the fourth meeting of the China-South Africa High-level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism, advance cooperation in culture, tourism, education, youth, poverty reduction and other fields, and consolidate the popular support for the friendship between the two countries. China is ready to work with South Africa and other African countries to implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and the common understandings reached between Chinese and African leaders, and jointly create a better future for China and Africa.
Cyril Ramaphosa said that the peoples of South Africa and China enjoy time-honored friendship, and the current bilateral relations witness a strong momentum of development. South Africa always regards China as its most trustworthy friend and most important strategic partner. The elevation of bilateral relations once again confirms the uniqueness of South Africa-China relations. South Africa firmly pursues the one-China policy and supports the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and a series of global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping. South Africa is ready to strengthen exchanges at all levels with China, expand the scale of trade under the framework of Belt and Road cooperation, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as investment, infrastructure, energy, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges. South Africa attaches great importance to the core role China has played in global affairs, highly appreciates China’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of Africa and developing countries, and believes that the summit will be a successful grand event that will inject new impetus into Africa’s development and revitalization.
Wu Zhenglong was present at the meeting.
