Wang Yi continues 36-year tradition with first visit of 2026 to Africa

For the 36^th consecutive year, the Chinese Foreign Minister has begun his program of diplomatic visits for 2026 by visiting Africa.

Beginning January 7, Wang Yi visited Ethiopia (which is also the home of the African Union), followed by Tanzania and Lesotho.

On January 8, Wang and Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf jointly held the ninth China-AU Strategic Dialogue at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.

Elaborating on the significance of this, Wang said that it is the inheritance of the China-Africa friendship. China-Africa friendship was forged in their arm-in-arm struggle for the cause of national independence and liberation and has matured through their respective national development and economic growth. It demonstrates the solidarity of developing countries. Both China and Africa belong to the Global South and share similar historical experiences and common aspirations. The unity and concerted efforts of more than 2.8 billion people in China and Africa will enable them to overcome any difficulties and challenges, accelerate the pace of their shared path toward modernisation, and contribute to a more equitable, cooperative, harmonious and stable world.

China is willing to leverage its own development to provide support for the vast number of developing countries, including those in Africa, to achieve modernisation together and jointly safeguard the interests of the Global South. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has played an important role in the common development of China and Africa, blazing a path of win-win cooperation between China and Africa. Both sides should continue to make good use of this platform to deepen practical cooperation.

Youssouf added that the AU congratulates China on successfully hosting the Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. At a time when power politics and bullying are on the rise and multilateralism is under attack, Africa and China are at a critical moment to remember history, look to the future, and defend sovereignty. It is even more necessary for Africa and China to deepen their partnership.

In a Joint Press Release of the African Union-China Strategic Dialogue, both sides noted that China and the African Union, members of the Global South, share broad consensus on major international and regional issues. They underscored the importance of jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other to safeguard their respective core interests and major concerns. In this regard, they emphasised the need to further strengthen coordination and cooperation in order to inject positive momentum into global and regional peace, stability, and development.

The two sides reiterated the imperative of upholding a global order based on international law, in particular the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the peaceful settlement of disputes and specifically expressed concerns on the recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, reaffirmimg that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected, and the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law must be adhered to.

Also on January 8, the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges was held at the African Union headquarters. Wang Yi attended the event, read out a congratulatory letter from President Xi Jinping and delivered a keynote speech. Foreign Minister Jean-Claude Gakosso of the Republic of the Congo, the African co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie Amde also addressed the ceremony.

Wang Yi added that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with major historical shifts taking place in the international landscape. The Global South, represented by China and Africa, is developing and rising irresistibly. Meanwhile, the world remains far from peaceful. The law of the jungle runs counter to international law and the basic norms of international relations, while power politics and acts of bullying infringe on the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. In the face of a turbulent world, China and Africa more than ever need to uphold fairness and justice, strengthen solidarity and mutual support, and enhance exchanges and cooperation.

He put forward four initiatives from China to promote cooperation between China and Africa:

Prioritising development and acting as fellow travellers in advancing modernisation. Guided by the six features for jointly advancing modernisation, the two sides should actively implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and work for mutual integration and promotion of people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation. China will continue to expand its unilateral openness to Africa and believes that the full implementation of the zero-tariff measure covering 100 percent tariff lines for products from Africa will significantly boost Africa’s exports to China and the development of its industries and technologies, making China’s vast market a great opportunity for Africa.

Putting the people first and acting as go-getters in serving the people. Both sides should take the aspirations of the Chinese and African peoples for a better life as a goal, focus on fostering a number of long-lasting mechanisms for people-to-people exchanges, create more popular brands, implement various measures of the Partnership Action for People-to-People Exchanges, and carry out a wider variety of people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Upholding mutual learning and exchanges and acting as doers in exchanges on governance. The Chinese side is ready to enhance interactions with political parties and political organisations across Africa, build a new type of party-to-party relations to help shape a new type of international relations, and inject more fresh spiritual energy into the steady and long-term development of China-Africa cooperation.

Embracing openness and inclusiveness and acting as good partners with a shared future. Both sides should be guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity. Both sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and safeguard the common interests of developing countries. China firmly supports Africa in playing a greater role on the international stage, rectifying historical injustices suffered by Africa, and enhancing Africa’s representation and voice in the multilateral governance system.

The African leaders present noted that the peoples of Africa and China are as close as brothers, and that Africa-China cooperation is mutually beneficial. They spoke highly of the tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making Africa the destination of their first overseas visit each year, expressed sincere admiration for China’s remarkable development achievements, and conveyed gratitude for China’s support and assistance to Africa.

In his congratulatory letter, President Xi Jinping noted that organising the Year of People-to-People Exchanges on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Africa is an important consensus reached between him and African leaders, and marks a significant step to further cement public support for China-Africa friendship at a new historical starting point. He expressed the hope that both sides will seize the Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward traditional friendship, strengthen mutual learning among civilisations, expand people-to-people exchanges, especially among the youth, deepen exchange of governance experience, and jointly advance modernisation. Through these efforts, the two sides can promote closer bonds among the over 2.8 billion people in China and Africa, pooling their hearts, minds and strengths, and make new contributions to the Global South’s solidarity in addressing global challenges, promoting the common values of humanity, and advancing the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Also, on January 8, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali met with Wang Yi.

He said that Ethiopia regards China as a trustworthy, close brother and strategic partner. Ethiopia appreciates China’s long-standing support and assistance for its economic and social development and speaks highly of China’s efforts in implementing the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Wang also held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos.

He said that China will continue to strengthen practical cooperation with Ethiopia from the perspective of mutual benefit and South-South cooperation, jointly reinvigorate projects such as the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, and play an exemplary role in promoting Ethiopia’s prosperity and development as well as regional connectivity. Both sides should make full use of the dividends of China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries having diplomatic relations with China, expand industrial cooperation, and advance together on the path to modernisation.

Gedion Timothewos said that China has provided valuable support for Ethiopia’s development, and the projects and stories that reflect the friendship between the two countries are visible throughout Addis Ababa.

In a joint press release, the two foreign ministers agreed that both sides had reaffirmed that all countries should abide by the basic principles established by the UN Charter and international law, respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, and oppose the use or threat of use of force in international relations.

On January 10, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan met with Wang Yi in Dar es Salaam.

She expressed gratitude for China’s substantial support to Tanzania’s development within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which has helped boost the economic and social development of African countries. She said that China is an enduring and steadfast partner with whom Tanzania shares weal and woe, and that the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Party of the Revolution) of Tanzania and the Communist Party of China share a brotherly friendship. The Tanzanian side firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to actively synergise development plans with China, deepen practical cooperation, advance the revitalisation of the Tanzania-Zambia (TAZARA) Railway and the building of a regional prosperity belt, strengthen inter-party exchanges, expand people-to-people interactions, boost Tanzania’s economic growth, and bring benefits to the two peoples.

Wang Yi conveyed President Xi Jinping’s cordial greetings to Samia Suluhu Hassan, stating that China and Tanzania are friends with a shared future. The friendship between the two countries was personally forged and nurtured by the older generations of leaders, has withstood the test of changing international circumstances, and remains a most valuable spiritual asset of both sides. The Chinese side values the relations between the two parties and the two countries and stands ready to work with Tanzania to implement the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, strengthen experience sharing on governance, deepen practical cooperation, enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and continuously advance the China-Tanzania comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. China appreciates Tanzania’s commitment to the one-China principle and firmly supports Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence and national dignity, as well as pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. The two sides should actively promote high-quality development of bilateral cooperation and turn the revitalised Tanzania-Zambia Railway into an engine for regional development, a bridge of friendship and a road to prosperity, continuously benefiting the people of Tanzania and other African countries.

The previous day, Wang had met and held talks with Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo.

Wang Yi stated that China-Tanzania relations were jointly forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries and strengthened through the joint efforts of several generations despite challenges. China values the traditional friendship with Tanzania and is willing to work with the new Tanzanian government to follow the guidance of the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, carry forward the traditional friendship, maintain high-level mutual trust, firmly support each other, deepen exchanges and cooperation, and promote the implementation of more outcomes from the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Tanzania, thereby boosting the modernisation processes of both countries and better benefiting the two peoples.

China, he said, always views its cooperation with Africa from the perspective of South-South cooperation featuring mutual support and assistance and is willing to achieve common development with Africa and jointly build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. The Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) is a symbol of China-Africa friendship and a milestone of bilateral cooperation. China and Tanzania should work together to revitalise the railway, create the TAZARA Prosperity Belt, contribute to Tanzania’s comprehensive development, benefit the local people, and continue to serve as a model of China-Africa cooperation. As countries of the Global South, China and Tanzania should join hands to safeguard the central role of the United Nations and the authority of international law, firmly support multilateralism, promote a more just and equitable global governance system, and defend the legitimate rights and interests of the vast number of developing countries.

Mahmoud Thabit Kombo welcomed Wang Yi to the second home of the Chinese people. He noted that Wang Yi is the first foreign minister to visit Tanzania after the country’s general election, which fully demonstrates the close relationship between Tanzania and China. He expressed gratitude to China for its long-term selfless support and generous assistance to African countries, including Tanzania. Tanzania-China relations are a model of Africa-China cooperation. The TAZARA Railway Revitalisation Project will strongly promote regional connectivity and economic development. Tanzania supports the Belt and Road Initiative and the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping and stands ready to deepen cooperation with China within the framework of the FOCAC, strengthen multilateral coordination, and jointly defend regional and global fairness, justice, development and prosperity.

Following their talks, the two foreign ministers jointly met the press.

Wang Yi stated that China and Tanzania share a long-standing and enduring traditional friendship. The profound friendship between Tanzania’s founding president Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere and China’s Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai laid a solid foundation for the long-term development of China-Tanzania relations. Since China entered a new era, President Xi Jinping chose Tanzania as one of the destinations of his first visit to Africa in 2013, where he put forward the principles of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith in China’s Africa policy. This approach, building on the past achievements and advancing with the times, set a new milestone in the history of China-Africa relations.

Wang Yi noted that this visit to Africa continues the tradition of China’s foreign ministers making Africa their first overseas destination at the start of a new year for 36 consecutive years. Thirty-six years have passed in the blink of an eye, during which the world has undergone tremendous changes, but what remains unchanged is China’s consistent and unwavering policy toward Africa. By upholding and carrying forward this tradition, both sides will demonstrate to the world that China-Africa friendship transcends the limits of time and space, the changes in the international landscape, and the distractions of individual incidents. Shared ideals unite China and Africa firmly, and the imperative for accelerated development and revitalisation connects China and Africa closely. China-Africa cooperation is an important component of South-South cooperation, with strong internal momentum and bright development prospects.

Wang Yi summarised China-Africa friendship and mutual trust in three key aspects:

Jointly upholding justice. China and Africa once stood shoulder to shoulder in the struggles against imperialism and colonialism, in the fight for national liberation, and in the pursuit of development and revitalisation. Today, the two sides continue to support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests, firmly safeguard the common interests of the Global South, resolutely uphold the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and steadfastly act as a stabilising force in a world marked by turbulence and change. China supports Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests, supports the Tanzanian people in pursuing a successful development path suited to their national conditions, and opposes any external interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs under any pretext.

Jointly pursuing progress. Both China and Africa put people at the centre, keep pace with the development and progress of the times, and promote the leapfrog development of China-Africa relations. China and Africa have agreed to continue standing on the side of historical progress and the common interests of all humanity. China-Tanzania relations have gone beyond the bilateral scope and align with the historical trend of the collective rise of the Global South, embodying profound philosophical values and an exemplary leading role.

Jointly advocating mutual benefit. China-Africa cooperation is a symphony, not a solo. China and Africa’s shared pursuit of modernisation is anchored in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. China stands ready to further synergise development strategies with African countries, promote faster and broader implementation of the outcomes from the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, advancing hand in hand on the path to modernisation. Two months ago, under the personal guidance and effort of the heads of state of China, Tanzania, and Zambia, the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) revitalisation project successfully broke ground. This is the best way for this generation to honour predecessors and inspire future generations. China is willing to work with Tanzania to advance the revitalisation of the TAZARA Railway with great efficiency and high quality, jointly build the TAZARA Railway prosperity belt, make it a new engine for Tanzania’s development, give the country wings to fly, and ensure that the railway and all the cooperation projects with China’s participation will bring greater and more sustainable benefits to the local people, continuously enriching and developing the China-Tanzania comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

A joint communiqué stated that the two ministers held talks in a warm and cordial atmosphere where they spoke highly of the traditional friendship between China and Tanzania, built on trust and mutual respect. The China side conveyed its congratulatory message to Tanzania for the successful conduct of the General Elections held in October 2025 and expressed strong support for the Government of Tanzania to safeguard constitutional order, protect lives, property, and national stability in accordance with the law. Both sides reaffirmed their shared rejection of violence, external interference, and actions that undermine national unity. China reiterated its full confidence in Tanzania’s leadership and institutions to manage internal affairs independently.

It added that: “China and Tanzania have committed to synergising implementation of development strategies, [including] Tanzania’s National Development Vision 2050 anchored on a strong and inclusive economy; human capital development, and sustainable prosperity, and China will basically achieve socialist modernisation by 2035. The two sides agreed to further expand their two-way investment and trade. China welcomed Tanzania’s ambition to double its export to China by 2030 and pledged support through capacity building in the field of trade and customs management. China reiterated that its vast market remains open to Tanzania through the zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent tariff lines from African countries having diplomatic relations with China.”

The two sides welcomed the smooth commencement of the TAZARA Railway revitalisation project and expressed their readiness to support its implementation. They will actively implement the Joint Statement by China, Tanzania and Zambia on Jointly Building the TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt, promote integrated development along the TAZARA Railway, connect other infrastructure including railways and ports, explore the potential for widening collaboration in the TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt for regional development, and set a model for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa. The two sides are exploring the possibility of organising a high-level TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt meeting in the near future.

Further, the two sides agreed that the sovereignty and security of all nations should be fully protected under international law. They reaffirmed their commitment to firmly upholding the United Nations Charter, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, and calling on settlement of issues through dialogue and negotiation.

Following his visit to Tanzania, Wang Yi then visited the small southern African state of Lesotho, holding talks with Prime Minister Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane in the capital Maseru on January 10.

Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane stated that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries and expressed gratitude for China’s valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho. He expressed appreciation for China’s implementation of a zero-tariff policy for African products, which will provide a new impetus for Lesotho’s development. Lesotho highly appreciates the series of major initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping and is willing to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.

Wang Yi conveyed the cordial greetings from Chinese leaders to Prime Minister Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane and congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence. He added that China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and bullying acts, and work together to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

On the same day, Wang held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Lejone Mpotjoana.

The Chinese Foreign Minister stated that China-Lesotho relations are a good example of China’s observance of the principle of equality among all countries, big or small, in its diplomacy. China views Lesotho as a strategic partner and is ready to work with Lesotho to set a model of mutual respect, equal-footed cooperation, and common development between countries of different sizes. The tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making Africa the destination of their first overseas visit in a new year for 36 consecutive years fully demonstrates that China firmly stands with its African brothers to resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South countries. In this changing and turbulent world, unilateralism, hegemonism and protectionism pose threats to world peace and harm the interests of all countries, particularly small and medium-sized nations.

Lejone Mpotjoana stated that Lesotho supports all efforts made by China to achieve national reunification. Lesotho is willing to deepen cooperation with China in various fields and advance the building of a Lesotho-China community with a shared future at a high level. Lesotho supports the four global initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping and is willing to work closely with China in international affairs, jointly support multilateralism, and safeguard world peace and development.

In a Joint Press Communiqué, the two countries stressed that promoting human rights is a common cause for all humanity, the right to subsistence and the right to development are basic human rights of primary importance, and exchanges and cooperation on human rights should be carried out based on mutual respect and equality. Issues related to Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Xizang [Tibet] are China’s internal affairs. Both sides oppose politicising, weaponising and applying double standards to human rights issues and oppose the interference in the internal affairs of the two countries under the pretext of human rights.

The two sides spoke highly of the important outcomes made in ten partnership actions that China and Africa have jointly taken to advance modernisation, which have injected new energy into Lesotho’s development in such areas as agriculture, energy transition, infrastructure, health-care and capacity-building. They also reaffirmed their commitment to close collaboration to jointly oppose unilateral sanctions, protectionism and economic hegemonism, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, establish a more just and equitable global governance system, and build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity.

It had previously been announced that Wang Yi would visit Somalia on this trip. However, that visit was postponed due to what was described as a scheduling issue. Nevertheless, on January 11, Wang held a phone conversation with Foreign Minister of Somalia Abdisalam Dhaay.

Wang Yi asked Abdisalam Dhaay to convey Chinese leaders’ cordial greetings to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and expressed China’s welcome for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to China this year to attend the second China-Arab States Summit. Wang Yi emphasised that China and Somalia share a traditional friendship, and China is firmly committed to a friendly policy toward Somalia. The two countries have always upheld mutual respect and support, and the strategic partnership between China and Somalia will not be distracted by any single event. China will consistently support Somalia in safeguarding its national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and oppose any attempts by Somaliland to collude with the Taiwan authorities in seeking independence. (Additional background on this issue may be read here.)

China fully supports Somalia in assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council in January, to work together in fulfilling the responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security. China believes that Somalia will thrive through restored order, achieve development and prosperity, and make the Horn of Africa a region of peace, development and cooperation.

Abdisalam Dhaay said that Somalia and China enjoy a traditional friendship, and developing relations with China is Somalia’s firm strategic choice. Somalia sincerely thanks China for supporting its efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposing all separatist and terrorist acts, and helping Somalia achieve national stability and development. Somalia adheres to the one-China principle, holding that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and that Taiwan-related issues are purely China’s internal affairs.

The two foreign ministers agreed a joint statement in which both sides reaffirmed the strength of the China–Somalia strategic partnership and their mutual support on core interests. They welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral relations, agreed to deepen political trust and practical cooperation, and underscored their shared commitment to sovereignty, unity, and non-interference. China reiterated its firm support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, stressing that Somaliland is an inalienable part of Somalia, while Somalia reaffirmed its steadfast support for the one-China principle and all of China’s efforts for national reunification, and the authority of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758.

The two ministers also discussed expanding cooperation in trade, development assistance, people-to-people exchanges, and multilateral coordination, and advancing peace and development in the Horn of Africa.

The previous day, Wang Yi also had a phone call with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola at the latter’s request.

He added that South Africa successfully hosted the G20 Summit last year despite external pressure [from the Trump administration in the United States, which boycotted the summit], and the Chinese side congratulates South Africa on this achievement. In a world marked by turbulence and uncertainty, China firmly supports South Africa in playing a more important role in international affairs, and stands ready to work with South Africa and other Global South countries to uphold the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, oppose the law of the jungle and hegemonism, and jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

Ronald Lamola welcomed Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Africa in the new year and thanked China for its support for South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit and for its assistance in promoting the economic and social development of African countries, including South Africa. South Africa adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to further strengthen political mutual trust with China, deepen practical cooperation, expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, enhance multilateral coordination, and continue advancing the South Africa-China all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era. South Africa is ready to work with China to jointly uphold multilateralism, safeguard the central role of the United Nations, and defend international fairness and justice.

Finally, on his way home, Wang Yi made a stopover in Sri Lanka and held a friendly meeting with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.

Wang said that China has extended a helping hand to Sri Lanka at the earliest opportunity to cope with the devastating cyclone and believes the Sri Lankan people will overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes at an early date.

He added that China is willing to enhance exchanges of governance experience with Sri Lanka, expand practical cooperation in various fields, facilitate people-to-people exchanges, further deepen the strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and everlasting friendship between the two countries, and jointly build a China-Sri Lanka community with a shared future.

Wang also said that in the face of an increasingly complex and volatile international situation, China will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, especially small and medium-sized countries, uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and work with like-minded countries to oppose the resurgence of the “law of the jungle,” resist all forms of power politics and bullying, and defend multilateralism and international fairness and justice.

Herath thanked China for its valuable assistance following the cyclone disaster. He said Sri Lanka regards China as one of its most reliable strategic partners and is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, deepen cooperation in infrastructure, maritime affairs, tourism, and cultural exchanges, and continuously enhance the Sri Lanka-China strategic cooperative partnership.

He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s adherence to the one-China principle, expressed firm support for China’s efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and said Sri Lanka is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China in multilateral affairs to jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry and by the Xinhua News Agency.

China and the African Union Hold Strategic Dialogue

January 8 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf jointly held the ninth China-AU Strategic Dialogue at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa.

Wang Yi said that the AU is the “locomotive” driving African unity and cooperation, playing an important and unique role in China-Africa relations. President Xi Jinping has sent congratulatory messages to the AU Summits for 13 consecutive years, which fully demonstrates China’s high regard for developing relations with the AU. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between China and Africa, and also the 36th consecutive year for Africa to be the destination of the Chinese Foreign Minister’s first overseas trip in a new year. This diplomatic tradition reflects the continuity of China-Africa friendship, the stability of China’s policy toward Africa, and the solidarity of developing countries. The unity and concerted efforts of over 2.8 billion people in China and Africa will enable them to overcome any difficulties and challenges, accelerate their pace toward modernization, and contribute to a more just, equitable, harmonious and stable world.

Wang Yi said that both China and Africa are at a critical stage of development and are facing new and broad opportunities for cooperation. China is willing to leverage its own development to provide support for the vast number of developing countries, including those in Africa, to achieve modernization together and jointly safeguard the interests of the Global South. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has played an important role in the common development of China and Africa, blazing a path of win-win cooperation between China and Africa. Both sides should continue to make good use of this platform to deepen practical cooperation and jointly tell the story of China-Africa cooperation well. Both sides should continuously enhance the strategic, exemplary, and practical nature of China-AU relations and ensure that the AU plays a better leading role in the overall China-Africa relations. China firmly supports the AU in uniting and leading African countries to uphold independence and defend the right of African countries to pursue independent development. China supports the African people in seeking African solutions for African problems and pursuing development paths suited to their own national conditions. China also supports the AU in playing a leading role in regional affairs.

Wang Yi said that the AU promptly and actively responded to and supported the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, reflecting the high alignment of ideas between both sides and their shared aspiration to shape international fairness and justice. China is ready to continue strengthening dialogue and communication with the AU on the four global initiatives, support Africa in playing a greater role on the international stage, jointly practice true multilateralism, and make the global governance system more just and equitable.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said that China is a partner that Africa can fully trust and rely on. The fact that the Chinese foreign ministers have made Africa the destination of their first overseas visit in a new year for 36 consecutive years fully reflects China’s strategic emphasis on Africa. Africa-China friendship, based on mutual respect and a shared vision for peace and development, has become a model of cooperation in the Global South. The AU appreciates China’s long-standing partnership with Africa across various fields and its selfless support for Africa’s development. The AU highly commends the fruitful outcomes of the FOCAC and the tangible benefits it has brought to the people of Africa and China. The AU adheres to the one-China principle, firmly supports China in safeguarding its core interests on the Taiwan question, and opposes any attempt to split China. The AU is willing to work with China to continue strengthening Africa-China cooperation through mechanisms such as FOCAC to deliver greater benefits to the people of both sides.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said that the AU congratulates China on successfully hosting the Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. At a time when power politics and bullying are on the rise and multilateralism is under attack, Africa and China are at a critical moment to remember history, look to the future, and defend sovereignty. It is even more necessary for Africa and China to deepen their partnership. The AU highly appreciates the four global initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping and is willing to join hands with China to safeguard the common interests of the Global South and promote global fairness, justice, peace and development.

Wang Yi on the Tradition of Making Africa the Destination of the Chinese Foreign Minister’s First Overseas Trip in a New Year for 36 Consecutive Years

January 9 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, when holding the ninth China-AU Strategic Dialogue with Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf at the AU headquarters, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between China and Africa and also the 36th consecutive year for Africa to be the destination of the Chinese Foreign Minister’s first overseas trip in a new year. What are the reasons for this consistent tradition over the past 36 years?

First, it is the inheritance of the China-Africa friendship. China-Africa friendship was forged in their arm-in-arm struggle for the cause of national independence and liberation, and has matured through their respective national development and economic growth. At the start of the new year, it is only natural for China to visit its African brothers and sisters first, just as one would pay a New Year visit to relatives.

Second, it reflects the consistency of China’s policy toward Africa. Both China’s domestic and foreign policies have remained highly stable, providing valuable certainty to the world. This stability extends to China’s interactions with Africa. Regardless of the changing international and regional circumstances, China will always be the first to extend a helping hand as a brother when Africa needs assistance, and the first to stand by as a friend when Africa seeks partners for cooperation.

Third, it demonstrates the solidarity of developing countries. Both China and Africa belong to the Global South and share similar historical experiences and common aspirations. The unity and concerted efforts of more than 2.8 billion people in China and Africa will enable them to overcome any difficulties and challenges, accelerate the pace of their shared path toward modernization, and contribute to a more equitable, cooperative, harmonious and stable world.

Joint Press Release of the African Union – China Strategic Dialogue

January 8 (MFA) – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Wang Yi, held the 9th China–African Union Strategic Dialogue at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa on 8 January 2026. On the same occasion, the two principals jointly attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

The Chairperson and the Minister exchanged on China-Africa joint efforts to advance modernization, global governance, zero-tariff treatment, the International Organization for Mediation and the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa.

Both sides noted that China and the African Union, members of the Global South, share broad consensus on major international and regional issues. They underscored the importance of jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other to safeguard their respective core interests and major concerns. In this regard, they emphasized the need to further strengthen coordination and cooperation in order to inject positive momentum into global and regional peace, stability, and development.

The African Union side reaffirmed its firm commitment to the One-China principle, and reaffirmed that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and firmly supported all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification.

Both sides expressed concerns on the recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and reaffirmed that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected, and the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law must be adhered to.

They exchanged views on the cooperation in various fields including China-Africa joint efforts in advancing modernization. In this context, they underscored the importance of enhanced alignment between China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063 of the African Union and FOCAC commitments.

Both sides agreed to enhance communication, coordination and mutual support in their respective major initiatives, including Agenda 2063 as well as its flagship projects on Silencing the Guns by 2030, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on the African side, as well as the Global Security Initiative, the Global Governance Initiative and the International Organization for Mediation on the Chinese side.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China reaffirmed their commitment to promote the effective implementation of all signed cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding. They further agreed to explore the full potential for practical cooperation between China and the African Union, with a view to delivering tangible benefits to the peoples of Africa and China.

The Launching Ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges Held at the African Union Headquarters

January 9 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges was held at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the event, read out a congratulatory letter from President Xi Jinping and delivered a keynote speech. Foreign Minister Jean-Claude Gakosso of the Republic of the Congo, the African co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie Amde successively addressed the ceremony. More than 200 participants attended the event, including senior officials from the AU Commission and AU institutions, diplomatic envoys from African countries to the AU, high-level representatives of the United Nations agencies, and government officials and representatives from various sectors of Ethiopia.

Wang Yi said that launching the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges is an important initiative jointly agreed upon by President Xi Jinping and African leaders. In his congratulatory letter, President Xi Jinping elaborated on the significance of mutual learning among civilizations in advancing modernization for China and Africa and outlined the direction and principles of China-Africa people-to-people and cultural exchanges and cooperation, which fully demonstrated deep reflections on human history and civilization and provided important guidance for building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.

Wang Yi said that China-Africa relations boast a long history, and that the China-Africa traditional friendship has grown stronger over time. The ancient Silk Road and the magnificent expeditions of Zheng He enabled the two sides to get to know each other, while their shared struggle for national liberation and state independence in modern times forged a brotherly bond. Today, their active exploration for development and revitalization has deepened the bond of a community with a shared future. In recent years, under the joint guidance of leaders on both sides, China-Africa people-to-people and cultural exchanges have flourished and delivered fruitful results, brimming with vitality. It is gratifying to see that the people of China and Africa are growing ever closer, China-Africa cooperation is expanding in scope, and the friendship between China and Africa is deepening. Facts have shown that people-to-people exchanges form the most solid foundation of China-Africa friendship, while mutual learning among civilizations serves as the strongest driving force for China-Africa cooperation.

Wang Yi stated that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with major historical shifts taking place in the international landscape. The Global South, represented by China and Africa, is developing and rising irresistibly. Meanwhile, the world remains far from peaceful. The law of the jungle runs counter to international law and the basic norms of international relations, while power politics and acts of bullying infringe on the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. In the face of a turbulent world, China and Africa more than ever need to uphold fairness and justice, strengthen solidarity and mutual support, and enhance exchanges and cooperation. Both sides should prioritize development, be fellow travelers in advancing modernization, and make China’s vast market a great opportunity for Africa. Both sides should put the people first, act as go-getters in serving the people, and continuously strengthen the affinity bond between the 2.8 billion people of China and Africa. Both sides should uphold mutual learning and exchanges, act as doers in exchanges on governance, and inject more vibrant spiritual energy into the steady and long-term development of China-Africa cooperation. Both sides should also embrace openness and inclusiveness, be good partners with a shared future, and make contributions of China and Africa to the progress of human civilization.

Wang Yi said that both China and Africa are at a critical stage of their respective development and revitalization, with vast space for cooperation and even brighter prospects. Wang Yi called on both sides to take the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-people Exchanges as an opportunity to uphold their original aspiration of friendship, solidify the foundation of cooperation, continuously enhance the substance of the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, and jointly embrace a brighter future for China-Africa relations and the Global South.

African leaders said that the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges is an important step by both sides to implement President Xi Jinping’s major concepts and initiatives, emphasizing that President Xi Jinping’s congratulatory letter greatly inspired the African side, offering hope and a vision for the future. They expressed confidence that the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges will open a new chapter in Africa-China relations, deepen dialogue between the two civilizations, enhance exchanges of ideas, and further strengthen bonds between the peoples. African countries stand ready to seize this opportunity to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in such fields as culture, education, tourism, arts, and among the youth, and to continue advancing Africa-China relations.

The African leaders noted that the peoples of Africa and China are as close as brothers, and that Africa-China cooperation is mutually beneficial. They spoke highly of the tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making Africa the destination of their first overseas visit each year, expressed sincere admiration for China’s remarkable development achievements, and conveyed gratitude for China’s support and assistance to Africa. Since the establishment of the FOCAC, both sides have made tireless efforts and achieved fruitful results in economy and trade, connectivity, agriculture, education, telecommunications, and other areas, contributing to the implementation of the AU’s development agenda. The African side expressed willingness to deepen cooperation with China within the FOCAC framework and the Belt and Road Initiative to achieve common development. The current international situation is marked by frequent turmoil, and the international order is facing severe challenges. The African side voiced support for the Global Governance Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, and called on both sides to stand united against hegemonism, jointly uphold the international order, and safeguard world peace. Long live the friendship between Africa and China!

Wang Yi also joined African leaders in unveiling the logo for the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Prior to the launching ceremony, Wang Yi had friendly exchanges with Taye Atske-Selassie Amde and Jean-Claude Gakosso.

Xi Jinping Sends Congratulatory Letter to the Launching Ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges

January 8 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Xi Jinping noted that organizing the Year of People-to-People Exchanges on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Africa is an important consensus reached between him and African leaders, and marks a significant step to further cement public support for China-Africa friendship at a new historical starting point.

Xi Jinping emphasized that exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations constitute an inexhaustible driving force for the progress of human civilization as well as world peace and development. The two great civilizations of China and Africa have been enriching each other for thousands of years, serving as the historical and intellectual source of China-Africa friendship.

Xi Jinping expressed the hope that both sides will seize the Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward traditional friendship, strengthen mutual learning among civilizations, expand people-to-people exchanges, especially among the youth, deepen exchange of governance experience, and jointly advance modernization. Through these efforts, the two sides can promote closer bonds among the over 2.8 billion people in China and Africa, pooling their hearts, minds and strengths, and make new contributions to the Global South’s solidarity in addressing global challenges, promoting the common values of humanity, and advancing the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Wang Yi: China-Africa People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges Have Flourished and Delivered Fruitful Results

January 9 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges in Addis Ababa. In his keynote speech, Wang Yi spoke highly of the achievements of China-Africa people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Wang Yi said that China-Africa relations boast a long history, and that the China-Africa traditional friendship has grown stronger over time. In recent years, under the joint guidance of leaders on both sides, China-Africa people-to-people and cultural exchanges have flourished and delivered fruitful results, brimming with vitality. Some achievements are made with the focus on youth exchanges. Efforts ranging from the creation of platforms such as the China-Africa Future Leaders’ Dialogue and the Young Leaders Forum, to hosting events like the Youth Festival and the “Tiangong Dialogue” have established bridges of communication for exchanges between Chinese and African youth. Other achievements are made with the emphasis on talent enhancement and empowerment. The initiatives including the active promotion of the China-Africa Vocational Education Cooperation Plan and the establishment of 17 Luban Workshops in 15 African countries have trained over ten thousand professionals and provided solid intellectual support to boost Africa’s development. Additional achievements are made in sharing everyday life. Efforts have been made to bring a large number of Chinese films and television works such as Minning Town and Welcome to Milele into millions of households, which have been widely discussed and welcomed by African audiences. Furthermore, China has signed bilateral tourism cooperation agreements with more than 30 African countries, and the number of African countries and regions designated as outbound group tourism destinations for Chinese citizens has risen to 34. “Travel to Africa” is becoming increasingly popular in China.

Wang Yi said that it is gratifying to see that the people of China and Africa are growing ever closer, China-Africa cooperation is expanding in scope, and the friendship between China and Africa is deepening. Facts have shown that people-to-people exchanges form the most solid foundation of China-Africa friendship, while mutual learning among civilizations serves as the strongest driving force for China-Africa cooperation.

Wang Yi: Embrace a Brighter Future for China-Africa Relations and the Global South

January 9 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. In his keynote speech, Wang Yi put forward four initiatives from China to promote cooperation between China and Africa:

First, prioritizing development and acting as fellow travelers in advancing modernization. Guided by the six features for jointly advancing modernization, the two sides should actively implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and work for mutual integration and promotion of people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation. China will continue to expand its unilateral openness to Africa, and believes that the full implementation of the zero-tariff measure covering 100 percent tariff lines for products from Africa will significantly boost Africa’s exports to China and the development of its industries and technologies, making China’s vast market a great opportunity for Africa.

Second, putting the people first and acting as go-getters in serving the people. Both sides should take the aspirations of the Chinese and African peoples for a better life as a goal, focus on fostering a number of long-lasting mechanisms for people-to-people exchanges, create more popular brands, implement various measures of the Partnership Action for People-to-People Exchanges, and carry out a wider variety of people-to-people and cultural exchanges. This will further enrich the substance of China-Africa people-to-people interactions and continuously strengthen the affinity bond between the 2.8 billion people of China and Africa.

Third, upholding mutual learning and exchanges and acting as doers in exchanges on governance. The two sides should effectively utilize such mechanisms as the China-Africa platform for governance experience sharing and the China-Africa knowledge network for development, and continuously deepen the exchanges of experience in party governance, state governance, and modernization development. The Chinese side is ready to enhance interactions with political parties and political organizations across Africa, build a new type of party-to-party relations to help shape a new type of international relations, and inject more fresh spiritual energy into the steady and long-term development of China-Africa cooperation.

Fourth, embracing openness and inclusiveness and acting as good partners with a shared future. Both sides should be guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, focus on implementing the four global initiatives, work together to address global challenges, and make contributions of China and Africa to the progress of human civilization. Both sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs and safeguard the common interests of developing countries. China firmly supports Africa in playing a greater role on the international stage, rectifying historical injustices suffered by Africa, and enhancing Africa’s representation and voice in the multilateral governance system.

Wang Yi emphasized that both China and Africa are at a crucial stage of their respective development and revitalization. The two sides should take the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to uphold their original aspiration of friendship, solidify the foundation of cooperation, and accelerate the building of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali Meets with Wang Yi

January 8 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali met with Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Addis Ababa.

Abiy Ahmed Ali asked Wang Yi to convey his New Year greetings and sincere regards to President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He said that Ethiopia regards China as a trustworthy, close brother and strategic partner. The two countries have long supported each other and their bilateral relations are developing with strong momentum. Ethiopia appreciates China’s long-standing support and assistance for its economic and social development and speaks highly of China’s efforts in implementing the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Ethiopia adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, deepen practical cooperation in infrastructure, new energy, artificial intelligence, marine affairs, and other fields, strengthen mutual support in regional and international affairs, and promote sustained growth of bilateral relations.

Wang Yi conveyed the cordial greetings of Chinese leaders to Abiy Ahmed Ali, saying that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali is an old friend of the Chinese people. Under the leadership of Abiy Ahmed Ali, the Ethiopian people have striven in unity to achieve rapid progress in national development. Addis Ababa is changing with each passing day, and China extends its congratulations on this. China is ready to work with Ethiopia to implement the important common understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries, firmly support each other, further synergize development strategies, deepen exchanges of governance experience, and continuously elevate the all-weather strategic partnership between China and Ethiopia to new heights.

Wang Yi said that Ethiopia is leading the way in China-Africa cooperation, and both sides should work together to implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit. He called for making good and full use of the dividends of China’s zero-tariff policy for all African countries having diplomatic relations with China, accelerating the upgrading of economic and trade cooperation, strengthening cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, green industries, and the digital economy, and advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa. He expressed hope that Ethiopia will provide a sound environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business, and said that China looks forward to Ethiopia, as a major African country, playing an important role in regional and international affairs. China is ready to continue promoting the implementation of the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa and to play a constructive role in advancing regional peace, stability, as well as mutual benefit and win-win results.

On the same day, Wang Yi also held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos.

Wang Yi Holds Talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos

January 9 (MFA) – On January 8, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos in Addis Ababa.

Wang Yi said that the tradition of making Africa the destination of the first overseas visit by the Chinese foreign minister in a new year has been upheld for 36 consecutive years rain or shine, demonstrating that China always stands with its African brothers and is committed to strengthening cooperation with developing countries. Ethiopia was chosen as the first stop of this visit because the two countries are all-weather strategic partners and should maintain regular strategic communication and strengthen comprehensive strategic cooperation. China appreciates Ethiopia’s concrete efforts to honor its commitment to the one-China principle and supports Ethiopia in gaining a greater voice in multilateral institutions. China is ready to work with Ethiopia to implement the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping, continue to play a positive role in the development of China-Africa relations, safeguard the interests of the Global South in international affairs, and promote a multipolar world.

Wang Yi said that China-Ethiopia relations are built on mutual understanding and close bonds between the two peoples. He expressed the hope that both sides will utilize the opportunity of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to continuously deepen people-to-people exchanges and consolidate public support for the friendship between the two countries. China will continue to strengthen practical cooperation with Ethiopia from the perspective of mutual benefit and South-South cooperation, jointly reinvigorate projects such as the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, and play an exemplary role in promoting Ethiopia’s prosperity and development as well as regional connectivity. Both sides should make full use of the dividends of China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries having diplomatic relations with China, expand industrial cooperation, and advance together on the path to modernization.

Gedion Timothewos said that the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and China is comprehensive and strong. China has provided valuable support for Ethiopia’s development, and the projects and stories that reflect the friendship between the two countries are visible throughout Addis Ababa. He expressed gratitude for China’s strong support on issues concerning Ethiopia’s core interests, as well as for its valuable assistance in Africa’s development and peace. The ten partnership actions proposed by President Xi Jinping for China and Africa to jointly advance modernization are fully aligned with Africa’s development vision, and the Global Security Initiative plays an important role in addressing regional challenges. China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries has benefited people across Africa. All these demonstrate that China truly stands with the Global South. Ethiopia highly appreciates this and is willing to continue working with China to ensure that the all-weather strategic partnership between the two countries delivers greater benefits to the people of both countries.

Joint Press Release on the Talks Between the Foreign Ministers of The People’s Republic of China and The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

January 11 (MFA) – Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi visited Ethiopia from January 7 to 9, 2026. During the visit, His Excellency held talks with H.E. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos.

I. Both sides pledged to jointly advance the implementation of the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), deepen all-round cooperation, and strive to build the China-Ethiopia all-weather strategic partnership as a model for building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.

II. Both sides conducted discussions on deepening cooperation in traditional areas including economy, trade, infrastructure, energy, transportation, and justice; tapping the potential for cooperation in emerging areas including e-commerce, digital economy, artificial intelligence, and green energy; and expanding cooperation in culture, tourism, media, education, and think tanks. Both sides highlighted their willingness to take the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and promote people-to-people exchanges for closer bonds through culture and art.

III. The Chinese side appreciates the new achievements of Ethiopia’s national development, firmly supports Ethiopian people in exploring a development path that conforms to its national conditions and opposing external interference. Both sides stand ready to enhance coordination in development policies and strategies, promote exchanges in state governance experience and walk hand in hand on the path to modernization.

IV. Ethiopia reaffirms its firm commitment to the one-China principle, and reaffirms that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal Government representing the whole of China, firmly opposes all forms of “Taiwan independence”, firmly supports all efforts by the Chinese Government to achieve national reunification, and resolutely defends the authority of the UNGA Resolution 2758.

V. China attaches great importance to Ethiopia’s role in the Horn of Africa. The Ethiopian side commends the results achieved under China’s Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa. On the basis of respecting the UN Charter, international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries concerned, the Chinese side encourages regional countries to deepen connectivity cooperation and African integration in various fields such as promoting maritime logistics through access to the sea, through dialogue and diplomatic means for the purpose of promoting regional peace, stability and prosperity.

VI. Both sides noted that the two countries have conducted effective coordination and cooperation in multilateral fields such as the UN and the BRICS, and strongly defended the common interests of the Global South. The Ethiopian side highly appreciates the series of major initiatives and proposals put forward by President Xi Jinping and is ready to work with the Chinese side for their implementation.

VII. Both sides reaffirm that all countries should abide by the basic principles established by the UN Charter and international law, respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, and oppose the use or threat of use of force in international relations.

VIII. Both sides agreed to hold a new round of political consultations between their foreign ministries in due time this year.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan Meets with Wang Yi

January 10 (MFA) – On January 10, 2026 local time, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan met with Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Dar es Salaam.

Samia Suluhu Hassan asked Wang Yi to convey her New Year greetings and best wishes to President Xi Jinping. She expressed gratitude for China’s substantial support to Tanzania’s development within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which has helped boost the economic and social development of African countries. She said that China is an enduring and steadfast partner with whom Tanzania shares weal and woe, and that the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Party of the Revolution) of Tanzania and the Communist Party of China share a brotherly friendship. The Tanzanian side firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to actively synergize development plans with China, deepen practical cooperation, advance the revitalization of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway and the building of a regional prosperity belt, strengthen inter-party exchanges, expand people-to-people interactions, boost Tanzania’s economic growth, and bring benefits to the two peoples. Tanzania highly commends the four major global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping and stands ready to enhance multilateral coordination with China and promote a more just and equitable global governance system.

Wang Yi said that the essence of China-Tanzania relations is mutual trust and mutual support, and the defining feature of China-Tanzania cooperation is mutual assistance and mutual achievement. China appreciates Tanzania’s commitment to the one-China principle and firmly supports Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence and national dignity, as well as pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. The two sides should actively promote high-quality development of bilateral cooperation and turn the revitalized Tanzania-Zambia Railway into an engine for regional development, a bridge of friendship and a road to prosperity, continuously benefiting the people of Tanzania and other African countries. China supports Tanzania in playing a greater role in regional and international affairs and stands ready to work with Tanzania and other developing countries to be a force for peace, stability and progress in the world.

During the visit, Wang Yi also held talks with Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, and they jointly met the press.

Wang Yi Holds Talks with Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo

January 10 (MFA) – On January 9, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo in Dar es Salaam.

Wang Yi stated that China-Tanzania relations were jointly forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries and strengthened through the joint efforts of several generations despite challenges. China values the traditional friendship with Tanzania and is willing to work with the new Tanzanian government to follow the guidance of the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, carry forward the traditional friendship, maintain high-level mutual trust, firmly support each other, deepen exchanges and cooperation, and promote the implementation of more outcomes from the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Tanzania, thereby boosting the modernization processes of both countries and better benefiting the two peoples.

Wang Yi said that this visit marks the 36th consecutive year for Africa to be the destination of the Chinese Foreign Minister’s first overseas trip of each new year, sending a clear signal to the world that China and Africa will always stand together. China always views its cooperation with Africa from the perspective of South-South cooperation featuring mutual support and assistance, and is willing to achieve common development with Africa and jointly build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. The Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) is a symbol of China-Africa friendship and a milestone of bilateral cooperation. China and Tanzania should work together to revitalize the railway, create the TAZARA Prosperity Belt, contribute to Tanzania’s comprehensive development, benefit the local people, and continue to serve as a model of China-Africa cooperation. As countries of the Global South, China and Tanzania should join hands to safeguard the central role of the United Nations and the authority of international law, firmly support multilateralism, promote a more just and equitable global governance system, and defend the legitimate rights and interests of the vast number of developing countries.

Mahmoud Thabit Kombo welcomed Wang Yi to the second home of the Chinese people. He noted that Wang Yi is the first foreign minister to visit Tanzania after the general election, which fully demonstrates the close relationship between Tanzania and China. He expressed gratitude to China for its long-term selfless support and generous assistance to African countries, including Tanzania. Tanzania-China relations are a model of Africa-China cooperation. The TAZARA Railway Revitalization Project will strongly promote regional connectivity and economic development. Tanzania adheres to the one-China principle, remains firmly committed to developing the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China, and looks forward to benefiting more from China’s zero-tariff policy measures for Africa. Tanzania supports the Belt and Road Initiative and the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping, and stands steady to deepen cooperation with China within the framework of the FOCAC, strengthen multilateral coordination, and jointly defend regional and global fairness, justice, development and prosperity.

After the talks, the two sides jointly met the press.

China and Africa Jointly Uphold Justice, Pursue Progress, and Advocate Mutual Benefit

January 10 (MFA) – On January 9, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Mahmoud Thabit Kombo jointly met the press after their talks in Dar es Salaam.

Wang Yi noted that this visit to Africa continues the tradition of China’s foreign ministers making Africa their first overseas destination at the start of a new year for 36 consecutive years. Thirty-six years have passed in the blink of an eye, during which the world has undergone tremendous changes, but what remains unchanged is China’s consistent and unwavering policy toward Africa. By upholding and carrying forward this tradition, both sides will demonstrate to the world that China-Africa friendship transcends the limits of time and space, the changes in the international landscape, and the distractions of individual incidents. Shared ideals unite China and Africa firmly, and the imperative for accelerated development and revitalization connects China and Africa closely. China-Africa cooperation is an important component of South-South cooperation, with strong internal momentum and bright development prospects.

Wang Yi summarized China-Africa friendship and mutual trust in three key aspects.

First, jointly upholding justice. China and Africa once stood shoulder to shoulder in the struggles against imperialism and colonialism, in the fight for national liberation, and in the pursuit of development and revitalization. Today, the two sides continue to support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests, firmly safeguard the common interests of the Global South, resolutely uphold the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and steadfastly act as a stabilizing force in a world marked by turbulence and change. China supports Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests, supports the Tanzanian people in pursuing a successful development path suited to their national conditions, and opposes any external interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs under any pretext.

Second, jointly pursuing progress. Both China and Africa put people at the center, keep pace with the development and progress of the times, and promote the leapfrog development of China-Africa relations. President Xi Jinping has proposed that China and Africa work together to advance modernization characterized by six features and build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, charting the course for South-South cooperation and staying at the forefront of the times. China and Africa have agreed to continue standing on the side of historical progress and the common interests of all humanity. China-Tanzania relations have gone beyond the bilateral scope and align with the historical trend of the collective rise of the Global South, embodying profound philosophical values and an exemplary leading role.

Third, jointly advocating mutual benefit. China-Africa cooperation is a symphony, not a solo. China and Africa’s shared pursuit of modernization is anchored in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. China stands ready to further synergize development strategies with African countries, promote faster and broader implementation of the outcomes from the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Africa, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, advancing hand in hand on the path to modernization. Two months ago, under the personal guidance and effort of the heads of state of China, Tanzania, and Zambia, the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) revitalization project successfully broke ground. This is the best way for this generation to honor predecessors and inspire future generations. China is willing to work with Tanzania to advance the revitalization of the TAZARA Railway with great efficiency and high quality, jointly build the TAZARA Railway prosperity belt, make it a new engine for Tanzania’s development, give the country wings to fly, and ensure that the railway and all the cooperation projects with China’s participation will bring greater and more sustainable benefits to the local people, continuously enriching and developing the China-Tanzania comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

JOINT PRESS COMMUNIQUE ON THE BILATERAL TALKS BETWEEN THE FOREIGN MINISTERS OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA

January 11 (MFA) – “From shared history to shared future, China and Tanzania are building a Partnership that delivers”

At the invitation of Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania, Honorable Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Honorable Wang Yi, undertook a visit to Tanzania from 9th to 10th January 2026.

The two Ministers held talks in a warm and cordial atmosphere where they spoke highly of the traditional friendship between China and Tanzania, built on trust and mutual respect. The China side conveyed its congratulatory message to Tanzania for the successful conduct of the General Elections held in October 2025 and expressed strong support for the Government of Tanzania to safeguard constitutional order, protect lives, property, and national stability in according with law. Both sides reaffirmed their shared rejection of violence, external interference, and actions that undermine national unity. China reiterated its full confidence in Tanzania’s leadership and institutions to manage internal affairs independently.

Tanzania reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to support the one-China principle and reiterated its consistent position of recognizing that there is but one China in the world and respecting China’s national unity and territorial integrity, underscoring that any form of secession is unacceptable. Tanzania further supports all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification and the protection of its territorial integrity.

The two Ministers noted with satisfaction the fruitful outcomes of China-Tanzania relations and friendly cooperation over the past six decades and committed to practical implementation of the consensus reached by the two Heads of State in September 2024 to further elevate the China-Tanzania Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership to new heights of full-spectrum political confidence where positions on each other’s core interests are closely aligned and mutually supported. China expressed its readiness to continue working with Tanzania to implement outcomes of the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit by positively considering supporting projects in infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, green development and digital economy, hence systematically upgrading practical cooperation between the two sides for mutual development.

China and Tanzania have committed to synergizing implementation of development strategies, Tanzania’s National Development Vision 2050 anchored on a strong and inclusive economy; human capital development, and sustainable prosperity and China will achieve basically socialist modernization by 2035. The two sides agreed to further expand the two-way investment and trade. China welcomed to Tanzania’s ambition to double its export to China by 2030 and pledged support through capacity building in the field of trade and customs management. China reiterated that its vast market remains open to Tanzania through the zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent tariff lines from African countries having diplomatic relations with China. China will encourage more of its companies to invest in Tanzania. The two sides reaffirmed to further foster a fair and enabling business environment on both sides.

The two sides welcomed the smooth commencement of the TAZARA Railway revitalization project and expressed their readiness to support its implementation. The two sides will actively implement the Joint Statement by China, Tanzania and Zambia on Jointly Building the TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt, promote integrated development along the TAZARA Railway, connect other infrastructure including railways and ports, explore the potential for widening collaboration in the TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt for regional development, and set a model for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa. The two sides are exploring the possibility of organizing a high-level TAZARA Railway Prosperity Belt meeting in the near future.

The two sides agreed to jointly host activities related to 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges and expand cooperation in such areas as culture, tourism, education, public health, sports, youth, think tanks and media so as to solidify public support for China-Tanzania friendship. The two sides agreed to undertake measures to further ease movement of people between the two countries and enhance connection of people, and promote trade.

The two sides undertook to strengthen coordination and cooperation in international affairs and multilateral institutions. Tanzania appreciated a series of “Global Initiatives” advanced by China and committed to actively participate in their relevant activities through the existing bilateral mechanisms and therefore promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Further, the two sides agreed that the sovereignty and security of all nations should be fully protected under international law. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to firmly upholding the United Nations Charter, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, and calling on settlement of issues through dialogue and negotiation.

Lesotho’s Prime Minister Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane Meets with Wang Yi

January 11 (MFA) – On January 10, 2026 local time, Lesotho’s Prime Minister Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane met with Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Maseru.

Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane asked Wang Yi to convey his New Year greetings and best wishes to Chinese leaders and welcomed Foreign Minister Wang Yi to the “Kingdom in the Sky”. He stated that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China’s valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho. Lesotho adheres to the one-China principle, and firmly supports China in safeguarding its core interests. Lesotho is willing to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy. Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane expressed appreciation for China’s implementation of a zero-tariff policy for African products, which will provide a new impetus for Lesotho’s development. Lesotho highly appreciates the series of major initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping and is willing to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.

Wang Yi conveyed the cordial greetings from Chinese leaders to Prime Minister Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane and congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence. He commended the Government of Lesotho for focusing on economic development and steering the country onto a path of sustainable growth. Wang Yi noted that since the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit, the two sides have worked together to advance the ten partnership actions, successfully implementing a number of key projects that have significantly contributed to Lesotho’s development and revitalization. China is ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance cooperation in multilateral fields, and promote greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.

Wang Yi said that China appreciates Lesotho’s commitment to the one-China principle and supports Lesotho in defending state sovereignty, national dignity, and development rights and interests. Both sides should continue to firmly support each other. China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for Africa in Lesotho, expand bilateral economic, trade, investment, and industrial cooperation, facilitate greater access for Lesotho’s specialty products to the Chinese market, and continuously boost Lesotho’s national development. China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and bullying acts, and work together to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

On the same day, Wang Yi also held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Lejone Mpotjoana.

Wang Yi Holds Talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Lejone Mpotjoana

January 11 (MFA) – On January 10, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho Lejone Mpotjoana in Maseru.

Wang Yi stated that China-Lesotho relations are a good example of China’s observance of the principle of equality among all countries, big or small, in its diplomacy. China views Lesotho as a strategic partner and is ready to work with Lesotho to set a model of mutual respect, equal-footed cooperation, and common development between countries of different sizes. The tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making Africa the destination of their first overseas visit in a new year for 36 consecutive years fully demonstrates that China firmly stands with its African brothers to resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South countries. In this changing and turbulent world, unilateralism, hegemonism and protectionism pose threats to world peace and harm the interests of all countries, particularly small and medium-sized nations. The four major global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping aim to achieve prosperity through development, ensure stability through better security, enhance mutual trust through exchanges between civilizations and pursue justice through sound governance. China is ready to join hands with Lesotho to help the Global South seek strength through unity, achieve modernization together, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Wang Yi said that China appreciates Lesotho’s commitment to the one-China principle and will continue to support Lesotho in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security, and development rights and interests. Both sides should strengthen strategic mutual trust, expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, make full use of the dividends of the zero-tariff policy, deepen practical cooperation across various fields, and promote the continuous advancement of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.

Lejone Mpotjoana stated that Lesotho views China as a trusted strategic partner, and expressed sincere gratitude to China for the long-standing support and assistance to Lesotho. Lesotho highly commends the important achievements made through the ten partnership actions for China and Africa to jointly advance modernization. Lesotho reaffirms its firm commitment to the one-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China and resolutely opposing any form of “Taiwan independence”. Lesotho supports all efforts made by China to achieve national reunification. Lesotho is willing to deepen cooperation with China in various fields and advance the building of a Lesotho-China community with a shared future at a high level. Lesotho supports the four global initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping and is willing to work closely with China in international affairs, jointly support multilateralism, and safeguard world peace and development.

Joint Press Communiqué Between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and The Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho

January 11 (MFA) – At the invitation of Hon. Lejone Mpotjoana, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations of Lesotho, H.E. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, paid an official visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho from January 10 to 11, 2026.

During the visit, the two Foreign Ministers held talks in a warm and cordial atmosphere and had an in-depth exchange of views on China-Lesotho and China-Africa relations, and international and regional issues of mutual interest.

The two sides spoke highly of the achievements in the development of bilateral relations, and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing China-Lesotho strategic partnership to a higher level and making it a model of friendly exchanges and common development between countries with different national conditions and systems. Lesotho supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping, and commends the initiatives for injecting stability and certainty to a turbulent world.

The two sides agreed to firmly support each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns. Lesotho reaffirmed its firm commitment to the one-China principle and recognition that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Lesotho resolutely opposes any form of “Taiwan independence” and firmly supports all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification. The United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 brooks no question or challenge to its authority. China applauds the new progress that Lesotho continues to make in its national reform process and supports Lesotho in upholding its national sovereignty, security and development interests.

The two sides stressed that promoting human rights is a common cause for all humanity, the right to subsistence and the right to development are basic human rights of primary importance, and exchanges and cooperation on human rights should be carried out based on mutual respect and equality. Issues related to Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Xizang are China’s internal affairs. Both sides oppose politicizing, weaponizing and applying double standards to human rights issues and oppose the interference in the internal affairs of the two countries under the pretext of human rights.

The two sides spoke highly of the important outcomes made in ten partnership actions that China and Africa have jointly taken to advance modernization, which have injected new energy into Lesotho’s development in such areas as agriculture, energy transition, infrastructure, health-care and capacity-building. Lesotho appreciates the important opportunities that China’s high-standard opening up offers to all countries of the world, including those in Africa, and it stands ready to work with China to fully leverage the policy dividends of the zero-tariff treatment and deepen cooperation in priority areas to better deliver benefits to the two peoples.

Both sides shared the belief that changes unseen in a century are accelerating and Global South countries are playing an increasingly important role in international affairs. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to close collaboration to jointly oppose unilateral sanctions, protectionism and economic hegemonism, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, establish a more just and equitable global governance system, and build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity.

Wang Yi Holds a Phone Conversation with Foreign Minister of Somalia Abdisalam Dhaay

January 11 (MFA) – On January 11, 2026 local time, during his visit to Africa, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Foreign Minister of Somalia Abdisalam Dhaay.

Wang Yi asked Foreign Minister Abdisalam Dhaay to convey Chinese leaders’ cordial greetings to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and expressed China’s welcome for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to China this year to attend the second China-Arab States Summit. Wang Yi emphasized that China and Somalia share a traditional friendship, and China is firmly committed to a friendly policy toward Somalia. The two countries have always upheld mutual respect and support, and the strategic partnership between China and Somalia will not be distracted by any single event. China highly appreciates Somalia’s practical actions in upholding the one-China principle. China will consistently support Somalia in safeguarding its national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and oppose any attempts by Somaliland to collude with the Taiwan authorities in seeking independence. China will continue to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas such as economy and trade, security and defense, regardless of changes in the international landscape. Taking the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity, China will strengthen friendly exchanges between the two countries, and consolidate and develop the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Wang Yi said that China’s diplomacy has always firmly stood on the side of developing countries, upholding justice and speaking up for small and medium-sized nations. China fully supports Somalia in assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council in January to work together in fulfilling the responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security. China believes that Somalia will thrive through restored order, achieve development and prosperity, and make the Horn of Africa a region of peace, development and cooperation.

Abdisalam Dhaay said that Somalia highly appreciates the tradition of the Chinese foreign ministers making Africa the destination of their first overseas visit each year. Somalia and China enjoy a traditional friendship, and developing relations with China is Somalia’s firm strategic choice. Somalia sincerely thanks China for supporting its efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposing all separatist and terrorist acts, and helping Somalia achieve national stability and development. Somalia adheres to the one-China principle, holding that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and that Taiwan-related issues are purely China’s internal affairs. Somalia highly commends the four global initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping and is willing to deepen exchanges and cooperation with China across various fields, advance Somalia’s cause of peace and development, achieve lasting peace in the Horn of Africa, and jointly build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Joint Press Statement of Foreign Ministers between the People’s Republic of China & the Federal Republic of Somalia

January 12 (MFA) – H.E. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China held a phone call with H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali (Dhaay), Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Both sides reaffirmed the strength of the China–Somalia strategic partnership and their mutual support on core interests. They welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral relations, agreed to deepen political trust and practical cooperation, and underscored their shared commitment to sovereignty, unity, and non-interference. China reiterated its firm support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, stressing that Somaliland is an inalienable part of Somalia, while Somalia reaffirmed its steadfast support for the one-China principle and all of China’s efforts for national reunification, and the authority of UNGA Resolution 2758.

Both sides reiterated that all countries should abide by the fundamental principles enshrined in the UN Charter and international laws and oppose the threat or use of force in international relations, and oppose coercive and intimidatory tactics that infringe upon the sovereignty of other countries.

Wang Yi Has a Phone Call with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola

January 11 (MFA) – On January 10, 2026 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola at the latter’s request in Maseru.

Wang Yi congratulated the African National Congress (ANC), South Africa’s ruling party, on the 114th anniversary of its founding, saying that the ANC is a major party with a glorious tradition that has weathered various severe challenges and accumulated rich political wisdom. He expressed confidence that through the concerted efforts of the entire ANC, South Africa will unite to address external disruptions and achieve national development and revitalization. China is ready to maintain high-level exchanges with South Africa, expand inter-party exchanges, strengthen strategic mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation. China will facilitate the implementation in South Africa of its zero-tariff measures for Africa and support South Africa’s economic development, so as to deliver benefits to the South African people. Both sides should ensure the success of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges and consolidate the public support underpinning China-South Africa and China-Africa friendship.

Wang Yi said that South Africa successfully hosted the G20 Summit last year despite external pressure, and the Chinese side congratulates South Africa on this achievement. In a world marked by turbulence and uncertainty, China firmly supports South Africa in playing a more important role in international affairs, and stands ready to work with South Africa and other Global South countries to uphold the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, oppose the law of the jungle and hegemonism, and jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

Ronald Lamola welcomed Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Africa in the New Year and thanked China for its support for South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit and for its assistance in promoting the economic and social development of African countries, including South Africa. South Africa adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to further strengthen political mutual trust with China, deepen practical cooperation, expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, enhance multilateral coordination, and continue advancing the South Africa-China all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era. South Africa is ready to work with China to jointly uphold multilateralism, safeguard the central role of the United Nations, and defend international fairness and justice.

The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern.

Chinese, Sri Lankan FMs meet on ties

COLOMBO, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday made a stopover in Sri Lanka on his way back from a trip to Africa and held a friendly meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China has extended a helping hand to Sri Lanka at the earliest opportunity to cope with the devastating cyclone, and believes the Sri Lankan people will overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes at an early date.

Wang said China is willing to enhance exchanges of governance experience with Sri Lanka, expand practical cooperation in various fields, facilitate people-to-people exchanges, further deepen the strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and everlasting friendship between the two countries, and jointly build a China-Sri Lanka community with a shared future.

Wang said that in the face of an increasingly complex and volatile international situation, China will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, especially small and medium-sized countries, uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and work with like-minded countries to oppose the resurgence of the “law of the jungle,” resist all forms of power politics and bullying, and defend multilateralism and international fairness and justice.

Wang noted that China appreciates Sri Lanka’s long-standing adherence to the one-China principle and is willing to continue supporting Sri Lanka in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. He added that the two sides can strengthen regional cooperation oriented toward South Asia and jointly promote a more just and equitable global governance system.

Herath thanked China for its valuable assistance following the cyclone disaster. He said Sri Lanka regards China as one of its most reliable strategic partners, and is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, deepen cooperation in infrastructure, maritime affairs, tourism, and cultural exchanges, and continuously enhance the Sri Lanka-China strategic cooperative partnership.

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