Africa Archives - Friends of Socialist China

China – a true friend to World Cup heroes Cabo Verde

With the current 2026 Football World Cup being one of the most contentious in the history of the game due to the customarily outrageous behaviour of the US Trump administration, curtailing the movements of the Iranian team such that it has had to stay in Mexico between games in the US, denying visas to players, their family members, and referees from Global South countries, delaying their entry, detaining on arrival, subjecting them to enhanced screening including police dog inspections, and so on, there have nevertheless been some moments of joy and inspiration, not least in some brave performances from minnow teams from the Global South.

One such team has been that from Cabo Verde (Cape Verde), an island nation in West Africa of little over half a million people.

Cabo Verde drew 0:0 with Spain, tipped as cup winners, on June 15 and then, on June 21, drew 2:2 with Uruguay, a strong football nation. They will go up against Saudi Arabia on June 27.

Cabo Verde’s star goalkeeper Vozinha was one of those affected by the US administration’s policies. Financial constraints and the high visa cost were preventing his mother witnessing her son’s moments of glory.

This changed thanks to the generosity of Chinese businessman, Lin Jie, originally from Wenzhou, who has lived in Cape Verde for more than two decades. Global Times reported that prior to her departure, Ana Cándida Évora, the star’s mother who is a 59-year-old house cleaner, spoke with CGTN and expressed her gratitude to fans in China. She called China a “very good country and a friend of ours [people in Cape Verde].” She even specifically addressed the Chinese fans in Chinese, saying, “Thank you, Chinese fans.”

Vozinha’s happiness at his mother being able to join him is captured in this BBC clip.

However, China’s contribution to the success of the Blue Sharks, as the national team are known, does not start or end with Lin’s generosity.

Writing in Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post on June 17, Dulue Mbachu noted:

“On Monday, thousands of Cabo Verdeans poured out onto the streets of their capital, Praia, beating drums, blowing horns and dancing to celebrate the national football team’s shock draw against Spain at the World Cup… President Jose Maria Neves described it as a defining moment for the country, which became independent from Portugal in 1975.

“‘If today, 50 years later, we are at the World Cup, we have already proven that we are a viable nation,’ he wrote on Facebook, following the match in the US city of Atlanta.”

“Yet the story of the former colony’s footballing achievements is not complete without mentioning China’s role in building the country’s sports infrastructure.

“This included the 15,000-capacity Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde, which was completed in 2014. The stadium was financed by Beijing and built by a Chinese state-owned contractor. This followed Cabo Verde’s first appearance at the African Cup of Nations in 2013, when the national team made it to the quarterfinals for the first time.”

He adds that China has built more than 100 sports arenas across the African continent over the past five decades:

“Ivory Coast, which is also competing at this edition of the World Cup, has three stadiums built with Chinese funding. It became the first African side to score a victory at this year’s tournament when it beat Ecuador by a single goal…

“Chinese aid also built stadiums in Angola before it hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 2010.

“In Tanzania, China built the 60,000-capacity Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and is constructing another in the city of Arusha. In Uganda, the Mandela National Stadium was built with Chinese funding…

“Still, China’s stadium diplomacy appears to have achieved its most dramatic outcome in Cabo Verde… Apart from the national stadium, China has helped with several other construction projects, including the national legislative building, the main government offices in the capital and the Poilao Dam.”

A feature article carried by the Xinhua News Agency reports that the national stadium, “a space better known for hosting major competitions, has [also] become a regular training ground where local youth build both athletic skills and discipline.” For example, the judo program now has 28 regular trainees who practice there three times a week.

Chinese hybrid rice brings new hope for bountiful harvests to Guinean farmers

China’s partnership with Africa is too often reduced and distorted, in the Western media, to a caricature of debt and extraction. The reality on the ground tells a very different story. In Guinea, as the Xinhua feature reprinted below describes, Chinese hybrid rice – the legacy of the late agronomist Yuan Longping – is helping farmers in Boffa Prefecture more than double their incomes and quadruple the area under modern cultivation, with yields reaching nine tonnes per hectare.

This is no isolated example. From the Gambia to Madagascar, Chinese agricultural teams have spent years working alongside local farmers, rehabilitating irrigation systems, transferring techniques and training thousands of growers in the pursuit of genuine food security. The emphasis throughout is on building local capacity rather than fostering dependency – precisely the kind of cooperation that the colonial and neo-colonial powers never offered.

Such projects are part of a far broader and deepening relationship. Under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Beijing has extended zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries, opening the Chinese market to African exports, while the Belt and Road Initiative continues to finance the roads, railways, ports and power grids that decades of Western aid conspicuously failed to deliver.

For all the talk in Western capitals of a “new scramble for Africa”, it is China that treats African nations as equals and genuine partners in development. The humble bag of rice from Koba, stamped “Chinese Hybrid Rice, Made in Guinea”, is a fitting symbol of that friendship.

China stands with Africa in fight against Ebola

Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong attended the High-Level Meeting of African Heads of State and Government and Partners on the Ebola Disease Outbreak on June 16 via video link. Liu, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, was invited by the African Union.

Liu told the meeting that China stands ready to provide more medical support to Africa within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and calls for the international community to enhance solidarity and cooperation to increase support for African countries, regarding the renewed outbreak of Ebola on the continent.

Noting that China and Africa have always been a community with a shared future, Liu said China has already provided emergency humanitarian assistance to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the African Union (AU), and dispatched medical expert teams to the DRC. Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 Chinese medical professionals who are working in African countries stand side by side with local people in combating the disease.

At the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s June 17 press conference, spokesperson Lin Jian briefed the media on China’s participation in the meeting, saying that China will implement the Partnership Action for Health under the framework of FOCAC, and provide assistance “to the best of our capability” in combating the outbreak.

Burundian President and current Chairperson of the AU Evariste Ndayishimiye chaired the meeting and heads of state and government from more than 10 African countries, including South Africa, Equatorial Guinea and Zimbabwe, attended.

Also on June 17, the Chinese government announced that it had decided to provide additional emergency humanitarian assistance on top of its previous anti-outbreak support for Africa. The assistance includes continued aid to the DRC, a batch of anti-outbreak supplies for Uganda, and sustained support for Africa CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) to fulfil its mandate, helping Africa to contain the outbreak at an early date, according to Tang Ying, spokesperson for the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

As of mid-June 2026, the current Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, has so far seen 780 confirmed cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and 19 in Uganda.

Chinese medical team helps Zimbabwe complete country’s first neuromodulation surgeries

A Chinese medical team has helped Zimbabwe carry out its first Deep Brain Stimulation and first Spinal Cord Stimulation surgeries – major neuromodulation procedures used to treat Parkinson’s, drug-resistant epilepsy, post-stroke rehabilitation and chronic pain. The Zimbabwean side led the operations, with Chinese surgeons providing technical support. The technology, developed by Tsinghua University and commercialised by Beijing PINS Medical, meets internationally advanced standards but is significantly cheaper than the US equivalents, making it genuinely deployable in African health systems.

The lead Zimbabwean neurosurgeon, Dr Nathaniel Zimani, captured its significance: “If China wasn’t there, we may get this technology 20 years from now. Because of this collaboration, we’ve advanced such medical technologies by 20 years in our country… It’s teaching us how to fish, than giving us fish.”

The work is being carried out with the help of the 23rd Chinese medical team sent to Zimbabwe since 1985, representing four decades of continuous medical cooperation, now part of the China-Zimbabwe “all-weather community with a shared future”, under which China has pledged to support Zimbabwe’s development and to oppose external interference and illegal sanctions.

It is worth setting this beside the West’s engagement with Zimbabwe over the decades. Britain ruled the country – then Rhodesia – through nearly a century of brutal settler-colonialism, dispossessing the Black majority and fighting a vicious war to prevent independence. When Zimbabwe finally won its liberation in 1980, and in the early 2000s reclaimed its land, the West responded with an illegal sanctions regime that inflicted enormous suffering. Two models of engagement, side by side: one built on plunder, white supremacy, colonialism and neocolonialism; the other on solidarity, development and knowledge transfer.

CPC delegation visits Egypt and Tanzania

As reported by the Xinhua News Agency, Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), led a CPC delegation to visit Egypt and Tanzania from May 17 to 20.

On May 20, the Dialogue between the CPC and the six sister parties in Southern Africa was held at Tanzania’s Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Leadership School. Centered on the theme “strengthening solidarity and cooperation, advancing side by side on the path to modernisation”, it was attended by Liu Haixing and leaders of the six sister parties, including Asha-Rose Migiro, Secretary General of Tanzania’s Chama Cha Mapinduzi Party (CCM); Ludmila Maguni, Secretary for Foreign Relations of the Central Committee of the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO); Nomvula Mokonyane, First Deputy Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa; Sophia Shaningwa, Secretary General of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) Party of Namibia; Gonçalves Muandumba, Secretary of Organisation and Mobilisation of the Central Committee of the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA); and Munyaradzi Machacha, National Political Commissar of the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF).

Liu noted that, over the years, the CPC and the six sister parties have forged an unbreakable brotherhood in the fight against imperialism and colonialism and blazed a distinctive path of cooperation in the journey of development and rejuvenation. Against a complex and grave international landscape, further deepening solidarity and cooperation between the CPC and the six sister parties meets the shared aspirations of the people of China and the six Southern African countries and aligns with the global trend of unity and self-strengthening among the Global South. The CPC stands ready to work with the six sister parties to implement the important consensus reached between General Secretary Xi Jinping and the top leaders of the six parties, draw wisdom and strength from their shared struggles, carry forward fine traditions, and remain good comrades for mutual learning, good partners for common development, good brothers for mutual support, and good friends for solidarity and coordination. No matter how the international situation evolves, the CPC will work with the six sister parties to practice true multilateralism, advance the implementation of the four major global initiatives, and jointly safeguard international fairness and justice and build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Leaders of the six sister parties in Southern Africa noted, over the 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between African countries and China, China has been a staunch supporter and reliable cooperation partner of Africa. They spoke highly of the remarkable development achievements made by China under the CPC’s leadership, and commended China for firmly safeguarding the interests of developing countries on international and regional issues. Facing mounting internal and external pressures, many African political parties are thinking and exploring future development paths. They believed that political liberation without economic prosperity is incomplete and unsustainable. Africa is embracing a new wave of pursuit of economic independence. Africa’s modernisation drive shares core commonalities with China’s path to modernisation.

A familiar slander: Counterpunch and the recycling of anti-China talking points

In a recent article for Counterpunch, Joshua Frank accuses China of “green economic imperialism” in Africa and Latin America – alleging that Chinese investment in critical minerals and renewable supply chains amounts to a new form of colonial plunder. The piece appeared just days after French President Emmanuel Macron, at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, condemned China for operating with a “predatory logic” across the continent.

In the following article, our co-editor Carlos Martinez responds. He shows that Frank’s case rests on a series of substantive misrepresentations – about China’s energy transition, its mining operations, its lending practices, and the meaning of imperialism itself. Whatever Frank’s intentions, the function of his piece is to manufacture left-wing consent for the US-led New Cold War on China.

In a recent article for Counterpunch, Joshua Frank revives a now-familiar accusation: that China is engaged in “green economic imperialism” in the Global South, plundering critical minerals to fuel its renewable-energy industries while propping up dependent regimes through resource-backed loans. Chinese engagement with the Global South, Frank concludes, is “economic imperialism (which is very much rooted in colonial policies)”.

This is a remarkably timely reproduction of the argument made by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi the previous week. Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa and of “creating dependencies” by insisting that critical mineral processing takes place on Chinese soil.

That should give pause. As observed on this website, Macron made his Nairobi remarks at a summit explicitly designed to “rebuild French influence in Africa” after France’s humiliating expulsion from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. He spoke as the head of a former colonial power controlling a currency, the CFA franc, which is used to extract foreign-exchange reserves from 14 African states into a French Treasury account. When the head of an actually-existing neocolonial entity denounces Chinese “predatory logic”, it’s not a bad idea for leftists to do their due diligence.

The coal canard

Frank opens by noting that China is “still building coal-fired power plants at a faster pace than any other country” and that “air pollution in China kills 2 million a year”. Both claims are substantively misleading.

Macron’s China-bashing in Africa: a case of projection

At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on 12 May, French President Emmanuel Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa. Carlos Martinez’s article below subjects that claim to the scrutiny it deserves – and finds that the phrase describes France’s own relationship with the continent rather more accurately than China’s.

The article sets out what China’s engagement with Africa actually looks like: a record $348 billion in bilateral trade in 2025; thousands of kilometres of railways, roads and power infrastructure; sixty years of medical teams; more university scholarships for African students than all leading Western governments combined; and, most recently, unconditional zero-tariff access to the Chinese market for all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing – the structural trade arrangement that Africa has sought from the West for decades and never received.

France’s record, by contrast, involves the CFA franc (a colonial-era monetary arrangement that continues to route African foreign exchange reserves through the French Treasury), at least sixteen military interventions between 1960 and 1991, coups, extractive multinationals, and the systematic underdevelopment of economies it claims to be partnering.

Macron’s real purpose, Carlos argues, is not to help Africa but to suppress the South-South cooperation that is gradually dismantling the neocolonial order France built.

The summit’s true character was made plain by what happened outside the venue. As Macron received a red carpet welcome from President Ruto, Kenyan security forces arrested international delegates attending the parallel Pan-African Summit Against Imperialism – a counter-summit of revolutionary and anti-imperialist movements from across the continent and beyond. A statement by the Black Alliance for Peace observes that this outrageous action “further demonstrates the growing panic and hypocrisy within imperialist and comprador circles”. Friends of Socialist China expresses its unflinching solidarity with those that have been arrested.

Speaking at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on Tuesday 12 May, French President Emmanuel Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa and of “creating dependencies” by insisting that processing of critical minerals and rare earths takes place on Chinese soil. He presented Europe, by contrast, as a partner offering “equal footing” and “co-investment”.

It takes a particular kind of audacity to make these remarks on a continent that France has systematically plundered for the best part of two centuries.

China implements zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries

On 1 May this year, with the Trump administration continuing to wield tariffs as a weapon of economic coercion against much of the world, China did something historic: it granted zero-tariff access to its market of 1.4 billion people for all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations (which is all African countries with the exception of Eswatini), with no conditions, political strings, or demand for reciprocal action.

This is not a sudden gesture but the culmination of a relationship with deep roots. For 35 consecutive years, China’s Foreign Minister has made Africa the first destination of their overseas travel at the start of each year. China championed the African Union’s entry into the G20. African countries were pivotal in restoring China’s lawful seat at the United Nations more than 50 years ago. China-Africa trade reached a record $348 billion in 2025. Chinese agricultural teams are helping Gambia achieve historic rice yields. Chinese engineers built West Africa’s first light rail, in Lagos. A new Africa CDC headquarters, built by China, now anchors the continent’s
public health infrastructure.

Against this backdrop, Western accusations of Chinese “neo-colonialism” in Africa ring hollow – and African leaders themselves have said so. Namibia’s president,
confronted by a German politician fretting about Chinese workers in his country, replied simply: “We will handle our own country.”

The Global Times editorial below sets out the significance of the new zero-tariff policy and what it represents for the China-Africa relationship and for the future of equitable global trade.

China will implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with it, starting May 1. This major policy initiative positions China as the first major economy in the world to grant unilateral and comprehensive zero-tariff treatment to all African countries that have diplomatic relations with China, as well as to all least developed countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China. This “unilateral and full-coverage” arrangement is not just a “subtraction” in tariffs, but also an “addition” for development, a “multiplication” for people’s livelihoods, and a “division” of arbitrary tariff impositions. From this, people can see China’s policy philosophy of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith toward Africa, as well as its correct view of justice and interests.

Many years ago, at multilateral forums such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China committed to gradually expanding tariff preferences for African countries to help them integrate into the global trading system. Starting in 2005 with zero-tariff treatment for certain products from the least developed countries in Africa, and granting zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines for least developed African countries by the end of 2024, as well as further extending the preference to all African countries with diplomatic relations with China by 2026, China has consistently fulfilled every commitment to Africa with steady and practical actions. Not once has it wavered due to global economic fluctuations. This commitment to “honoring its words with concrete actions” has not only solidified the foundation of mutual trust between China and Africa but also demonstrated the credibility of China as a responsible major country, setting an example for the international community in honoring promises and upholding integrity.

CPC and Frelimo reaffirm friendship

Coinciding with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo’s state visit to China, his first since assuming office, on April 22, Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), met in Beijing with Chakil Aboobacar, Secretary-General of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo).

Liu said that the CPC is ready to work with Frelimo, guided by the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, to implement the memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation between the two Parties, strengthen strategic communication and high-level exchanges, deepen exchanges of experience in state governance and administration and cooperation in cadre training, promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields through inter-party channels, and further advance the development of China-Mozambique and China-Africa relations.

Frelimo led the national liberation struggle against Portuguese colonial rule and has led the country since independence in June 1975. The deep ties between the CPC and Frelimo date to the earliest days of the liberation struggle. The founding leader of Frelimo Eduardo Mondlane visited China in 1963.

The following article was originally published on the IDCPC website.

Beijing, April 22nd—Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Chakil Aboobacar, Secretary-General of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo).

Liu said, President Xi Jinping met with President Daniel Chapo in a cordial and friendly atmosphere yesterday, and the two sides agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a China-Mozambique community with a shared future in the new era. The CPC is ready to work with Frelimo, guided by the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, to implement the memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation between the two Parties, strengthen strategic communication and high-level exchanges, deepen exchanges of experience in state governance and administration and cooperation in cadre training, promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields through inter-party channels, and further advance the development of China-Mozambique and China-Africa relations. This year marks the start of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, and China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Mozambique, foster new growth drivers for cooperation, and support Mozambique’s national development. Liu also briefed on China’s efforts in advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance, as well as the CPC’s education campaign to help officials gain a correct understanding of what it means to perform well and act accordingly.

Aboobacar said, China has always been Mozambique’s true friend standing together through weal and woe and a reliable development partner. He expressed gratitude for China’s long-term selfless support for Mozambique’s economic and social development. Mozambique firmly adheres to the one-China principle and will continue to stand firmly with China on issues concerning China’s core interests. Mozambique is ready to work with China to implement the important consensus of the two heads of state, deepen cooperation in economy, trade, resources and other areas, and pursue modernization hand in hand. Frelimo regards the CPC as its priority strategic partner. Seizing the opportunity of the signing of the memorandum between the two Parties, Frelimo is willing to work with the CPC to further conduct exchanges and mutual learning on experience in state governance and administration, and carry out in-depth cooperation in areas including party school development and cadre training, to enhance the governing capacity and level of Frelimo.

Victory for Swazi people as Taiwan separatist leader forced to abandon plan to celebrate their oppression

The planned visit by Taiwan’s separatist leader to Eswatini (Swaziland), where he was due to “celebrate” 40 years of rule by Africa’s last absolute monarch, was aborted after three African nations, Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar, took the principled stand of refusing to let his aircraft transit their air space.

The Taiwan Affairs Office of China’s State Council “appreciated the position and actions of the relevant countries in upholding the one-China principle”. Eswatini is the only African country to maintain so-called “diplomatic relations” with Taiwan.

Separatist leader Lai Ching-te complained on X that, “China’s coercive actions undermine the status quo, once again exposing the risks authoritarian regimes pose to the international order.”

But writing in People’s Dispatch, Pavan Kulkarni responded that: “While characterising China’s government as an ‘authoritarian regime’, Lai whined about not being able to travel to Swaziland to join the celebration to mark 40 years of rule by Africa’s last absolute monarch, King Mswati III, whom he referred to as a ‘like-minded partner’.

“Crowned on April 25, 1986, Mswati inherited the throne from his father, King Sobhuza II, who seized all power in 1973 by a royal decree that suspended the 1968 constitution and banned all political parties, which remain illegal to date.

“‘This milestone’ on April 25, 2026, marking 40 years of Mswati’s absolute monarchical rule, ‘is not a cause for celebration but rather a reminder of the ongoing struggles for democratic governance and human rights,’ said the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS)…

“Mswati… has taken 16 wives, and owns palaces, private jets, and a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars, while nearly 60% of his subjects live in abject poverty, eking out a survival on less than two dollars a day. But the monarchy’s status quo is becoming increasingly untenable as its domestic unpopularity reached a fever pitch in mid-2021, when a violent crackdown on the country-wide, pro-democracy protests sparked a mass uprising against the monarchy. Amid attacks on his properties and businesses, Mswati fled the country, returning only after his army suppressed the uprising, killing scores and wounding hundreds.”

The article adds that: “‘Helicopters, weapons, and ammunition supplied by Taiwan were used by the Swaziland army to kill protesters. It is widely known that Taiwan supplies arms and also provides training for the army,’ CPS head of publicity, Sandile Xaba, told Peoples Dispatch.

“‘The Taiwanese separatist regime plays a dangerous role in sustaining the absolute monarchy in Swaziland,’ the party maintains. Taiwan, in turn, extracts massive surpluses from cheap Swazi labour, especially women, labouring in the textile sector in which it is heavily invested.

President Chapo’s visit strengthens traditional China-Mozambique friendship

Mozambican President Daniel Chapo paid a state visit to China, April 16-22, at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

Meeting with President Chapo in Beijing on April 21, Xi Jinping pointed out that the China-Mozambique traditional friendship has travelled through history and across mountains and seas. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China and Mozambique have extended mutual trust and mutual support for each other, setting up a fine example of China-Africa friendship and South-South cooperation. Under the new circumstances, further deepening China-Mozambique friendly cooperation meets the shared expectations of the people of both countries and conforms to the prevailing trend of stronger solidarity and coordination among Global South countries against common challenges. He further stressed that friendship and mutual trust are the defining features and political strengths of China-Mozambique relations. Facing the changing and turbulent international landscape, the two sides should continue to strengthen coordination, solidarity and collaboration in the UN and other institutions, and jointly advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, and safeguard international fairness and justice.

President Xi Jinping noted that in the past 70 years of China-Africa diplomatic relations, no matter how the international landscape evolved, the two sides have always forged ahead shoulder to shoulder, through thick and thin. China and Africa, together with other Global South countries, represent a just force in this turbulent and transforming world. The conflicts in the Middle East are spilling over into African countries. China is ready to work with Africa to navigate these challenging times and jointly promote peace and seek common development. As it expands high-standard opening-up, China always puts Africa in a special and prioritised position. Starting from May 1, China will roll out zero-tariff measures across the board to all the 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China and further expand access of African products to the Chinese market through an upgrade of the green channel and other initiatives.

President Chapo noted that it is a great pleasure to be the first leader of an African country to pay a state visit to China this year, which testifies to the friendly and brotherly bond between the two countries, and carries great significance to the people of Mozambique. He congratulated China on its remarkable achievements made under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, and on China’s exemplary role among Global South countries. China is a true friend of Mozambique that all along extends selfless support and assistance to his country.

Following the talks, the two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of over 20 cooperation documents in areas including Belt and Road cooperation, implementation of the Global Security Initiative, economy and trade, people-to-people exchanges, medical and health, and news media. The two sides issued the Joint Statement Between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Mozambique on Building the China-Mozambique Community with a Shared Future in the New Era.

The Mozambican leader met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang the same day.

Li said that China will help Mozambique extend its industrial chains, increase added value and better turn its resource advantages into development momentum. China stands ready to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Mozambique, steadily expand the scale of bilateral trade, and deepen cooperation in fields such as agriculture, fisheries, energy and mineral resources, and infrastructure construction.

The two sides should also strengthen cooperation in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, disaster prevention and mitigation, among other areas. And given the changing international landscape, China and Africa should strengthen solidarity and collaboration, actively implement the four major global initiatives, uphold fairness and justice, and safeguard shared interests.

China and Namibia reinforce traditional friendship

Minister of International Relations and Trade of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musavyi paid an official visit to China between April 11-18.

On April 17, she met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Wang Yi stated that the traditional friendship between the two parties [the Communist Party of China and the South West Africa People’s Organisation {SWAPO} of Namibia] and two countries is deeply rooted and has withstood the test of global changes. China and Namibia have stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight for independence and freedom and joined hand in hand for development and prosperity. Amid profound changes unseen in a century, it is even more important to strengthen unity and cooperation to uphold international fairness and justice. Expanding and deepening China-Namibia cooperation is in the interest of the two peoples, aligns with the development trend of China-Africa relations, and reflects the efforts of the Global South in strengthening solidarity.

China, he added, has been a reliable partner that Africa has always been able to count on throughout history, and China’s diplomacy stands firmly with developing countries and with African partners. China is ready to work with Africa in a spirit of mutual trust and support, jointly pursue common development, prosperity and modernisation, strengthen the Global South, and work for a more just and equitable global governance system, so as to make greater contributions to world peace, development, and international fairness and justice.

Selma Ashipala-Musavyi stated that Namibia and China are traditional partners and sincere friends, and their comprehensive strategic partnership is built on the foundation of mutual support and mutual benefit. She appreciated China’s long-standing and invaluable support to Namibia and other African countries, stating that without China, there would be no such development achievements in Africa today.

The two foreign ministers issued a joint press statement in which both sides reiterated their strong commitment to multilateralism, particularly in promoting international cooperation and strengthening global governance. They emphasised that global challenges should be addressed collectively through inclusive dialogue rather than unilaterally.

They agreed to continue to expand mutually beneficial cooperation across a broad range of sectors, including new energy, oil and gas, mineral, agriculture, science and technology, education, tourism, infrastructure, and human resources.

Namibia underscored the importance of such cooperation in enhancing the added value of natural resources, including critical minerals such as uranium. This is to be achieved by promoting processing, conversion and related downstream cooperation, thereby extending the value chain for local benefits. All these efforts are aimed at promoting industrialisation, strengthening local processing capacity, creating employment, and increasing Namibia’s integration into the global industrial chains, particularly in key sectors such as green hydrogen, oil and gas, mining, and tourism.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Wang Yi Holds Talks with Minister of International Relations and Trade of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musavyi

April 17 (MFA) – On April 17, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister of International Relations and Trade of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musavyi in Beijing.

Wang Yi stated that the traditional friendship between the two parties and two countries is deeply rooted and has withstood the test of global changes. China and Namibia have stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight for independence and freedom, and joined hand in hand for development and prosperity. Amid profound changes unseen in a century, it is even more important to strengthen unity and cooperation to uphold international fairness and justice. Expanding and deepening China-Namibia cooperation is in the interest of the two peoples, aligns with the development trend of China-Africa relations, and reflects the efforts of the Global South in strengthening solidarity. China is willing to work with Namibia to implement the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, carry forward traditional friendship, enhance high-level exchanges, consolidate political mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and continuously enrich the connotation of the China-Namibia comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

Chinese martyrs remembered in Tanzania

The Qingming Festival, when Chinese people traditionally remember their dead and their ancestors, this year fell on April 5.

Far away from China, in Tanzania, east Africa, the festival acquired particular poignancy. On its eve, China and Tanzania jointly commemorated the Chinese experts who sacrificed their lives during the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), the occasion also marking 50 years since the railway’s commercial operations began. Dignitaries from both countries gathered at the Chinese Expert Cemetery in Dar es Salaam, where they solemnly laid wreaths at the graves of the fallen heroes in a gesture of remembrance and respect.

Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian noted that more than 50,000 Chinese workers participated in the railway’s construction in the 1970s, with 70 losing their lives in the process.

Together with Tanzanian and Zambian counterparts, they carved a railway through mountains, valleys, and wilderness, overcoming immense logistical and environmental challenges.

“They are heroes who built a monument of China-Tanzania and China-Africa friendship,” she said.

Reporting the occasion, the Xinhua News Agency wrote: “What emerged was not just infrastructure, but a powerful symbol of solidarity among developing nations… For many in Zambia and Tanzania, TAZARA is not an abstract symbol; it is a lifeline woven into personal and national histories.”

Bruno Ching’andu, managing director of TAZARA, reflected on its importance to Zambia’s survival during the early years of independence.

“Without this railway, we would have suffered greatly,” the Zambian national said. “It gave us access to the port of Dar es Salaam when we needed it most.”

The railway enabled the movement of copper exports, agricultural goods, and essential supplies at a time when all land-locked Zambia’s neighbours to the south were under white racist colonial and apartheid rule, while Zambia, as one of the ‘frontline states’ that had itself just shaken off the yoke of British colonialism, was supporting its sister liberation movements whilst itself facing constant threats of aggression.

Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation James Kinyasi Millya highlighted that China’s support came at a time when it was itself still developing.

“They gave assistance purely as a gesture of friendship,” he said. “No conditions, no demands, just solidarity.”

He contrasted this with colonial-era railways, which were often built to extract resources rather than empower local populations. That difference, officials said, continues to define the spirit of China-Tanzania relations today.

A fresh agreement signed between China, Tanzania and Zambia in 2025 aims to revitalise the railway. Millya said:

“To honour those who sacrificed, we must ensure this railway continues to serve future generations. Generation after generation will remember. This is a friendship written not just in history, but in blood.”

The historical bonds between Namibia and China continue to underpin a deepening strategic partnership – SWAPO secretary general

The Republic of Namibia celebrated the 36^th anniversary of its independence on March 21 – an independence won after years of armed struggle against the imperialist-backed South African apartheid racist regime.

Marking the occasion, Sophia Shaningwa, secretary general of the country’s South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), gave an interview to China’s Xinhua News Agency. SWAPO led the liberation struggle and has governed the country since independence.

Shaningwa said that the historical bonds between Namibia and China continue to underpin a deepening strategic partnership, reflecting a model of South-South cooperation rooted in solidarity, equality and shared development goals.

China’s solidarity with Namibia dates back to a time “when the forces of apartheid and imperialism sought to crush our legitimate quest for self-determination. This solidarity was not merely rhetorical; it was concrete, consistent and rooted in the shared anti-imperialist principles that define South-South cooperation.”

Noting that China played a pivotal role on multiple fronts during Namibia’s liberation struggle, the secretary general said that what distinguished China’s support from that of some other partners was its principled and consistent nature.

“Unlike some partners whose assistance was sometimes tempered by geopolitical calculations or conditionalities, China’s solidarity was rooted in genuine anti-imperialist conviction and mutual respect for national sovereignty. It combined political advocacy, diplomatic engagement and practical aid without seeking influence or concessions.”

Since independence, China’s role in Namibia’s infrastructure development has been particularly visible, with projects delivered by Chinese companies, including major road networks, port expansions at Walvis Bay and energy infrastructure, she noted. “These projects have significantly improved connectivity, facilitated trade, and contributed to employment creation and energy security.”

China-South Africa relations increasingly demonstrate global and strategic influence

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng recently visited South Africa, meeting President Cyril Ramaphosa and co-chairing the ninth plenary session of the China-South Africa Bi-National Commission.

Meeting with President Ramaphosa on March 25, Han said that China attaches great importance to its relations with South Africa and stands ready to work with the country to further advance the China-South Africa all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era established by the two heads of state.

He added that, as true friends who share weal and woe, China and South Africa should continuously enhance political mutual trust, support each other on issues of their respective major concern, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, strengthen mutual learning between their ruling parties, and promote practical cooperation in a coordinated manner.

Starting from May 1, China will fully implement zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries with which it has established diplomatic relations. In this context, Han said, China is willing to work with South Africa to finalise, as soon as possible, the early harvest arrangements under the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development to ensure that South Africa can benefit on a long-term and stable basis from China’s zero-tariff measures.

Han also stressed that both sides should jointly uphold fairness and justice. In the face of a complex and volatile international landscape, China stands ready to remain South Africa’s most reliable friend, strengthen communication and coordination within multilateral mechanisms, and work together to enhance the representation and voice of the Global South in international affairs.

President Ramaphosa noted that the South Africa-China partnership is both distinctive and strategic, development-oriented, and has effectively promoted the development and progress of South Africa and Africa. He expressed appreciation to President Xi for announcing the full implementation of the zero-tariff measures, saying that South Africa will make good use of these policies to expand exports to China and strengthen cooperation with China in areas such as infrastructure, investment and technology, so as to further enrich the bilateral relations.

South Africa stands ready to further enhance communication and coordination with China under multilateral frameworks to promote the common development of Africa and other countries of the Global South.

The following day, Han Zheng met with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile and co-chaired the ninth plenary session of the China-South Africa Bi-National Commission.

In his speech, Han said that under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the China-South Africa relations have entered a “golden era,” elevated to an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era, and are moving towards the goal of building a high-level community with a shared future.

In a world of intertwined changes and challenges today, China and South Africa, both major developing countries and important countries in the Global South, share extensive common interests and a broad space for cooperation. China-South Africa relations go beyond the bilateral scope and increasingly demonstrate global and strategic influence.

Communist Party of Swaziland rejects Taiwan visit

The Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) has issued a strong condemnation of the planned visit by the separatist leader of Taiwan to the celebration of King Mswati III’s 40 years of absolute rule this coming April.

A statement issued by party General Secretary Thokozane Kunene on behalf of the Central Committee notes that: “This visit is not an innocent diplomatic engagement, but a calculated political act designed to reinforce imperialist influence, legitimise dictatorship, and deepen the exploitation of the Swazi people.”

It adds: “The CPS reaffirms its principled position that there is only one China. Taiwan is not an independent country, but a province of China that became separated following the victory of the Chinese Revolution in 1949, which decisively defeated the reactionary regime of Chiang Kai-shek.”

The statement notes: “In Swaziland, the role of Taiwanese separatist forces has been deeply harmful and reactionary. Their presence has not contributed to genuine development or the upliftment of the people. Instead, it has entrenched systems of economic domination. Through financial arrangements and so-called ‘aid’, they have subjected the Swazi people to unsustainable debt burdens while facilitating land dispossession and evictions that strip communities of their livelihoods and dignity.”

The CPS further condemns the role of Taiwanese-linked capital in the textile sector, where Swazi workers — particularly women — are subjected to ruthless exploitation. Workers endure poverty wages that cannot sustain a decent standard of living while facing degrading and abusive working conditions. Reports of sexual harassment and gender-based violence expose the brutal reality of capitalist exploitation under foreign ownership.

“The CPS calls upon workers, youth, women, and all oppressed people of Swaziland to reject this visit in the strongest possible terms.”

Swaziland (or Eswatini as it was officially renamed in 2018) is Africa’s only absolute monarchy and also the only African state to still reject diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China in favour of maintaining official ties with the authorities on Taiwan in violation of the one China principle. The CPS was founded in 2011 and works under repressive conditions of illegality.

The following article was originally published on the party’s website.

The Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) unequivocally rejects the planned visit of Taiwanese separatist leader Lai Ching-te to Swaziland during the celebration of Mswati III’s 40 years of absolute rule this coming April. This visit is not an innocent diplomatic engagement, but a calculated political act designed to reinforce imperialist influence, legitimize dictatorship, and deepen the exploitation of the Swazi people.

South African Communist Party visits China

A delegation of the South African Communist Party (SACP) led by Solly Afrika Mapaila, the general secretary of the party, recently visited China.

On March 18, the delegation met with Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC).

Liu said, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, China-South Africa relations have maintained a high level of operation and continuously gained new connotations. The CPC and the SACP are the pioneering forces of the respective countries and important representatives of the world’s progressive forces. The CPC is willing to work with the SACP to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen strategic communication, deepen exchanges and mutual learning on party governance and state administration, promote cooperation in various fields and multilateral coordination through inter-party channels, drive greater development of China-South Africa and China-Africa relations, and work constantly to turn the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity into reality.

Mapaila said, the SACP highly appreciates the tremendous achievements of the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics under the leadership of the CPC and is willing to learn from China’s experience in strengthening Party building, combating corruption, consolidating popular support, and leading economic and social development. South Africa firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports China’s reunification cause.

The following article was originally published on the IDCPC website.

Beijing, March 18th—Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with a delegation led by Solly Afrika Mapaila, General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP).

From Zimbabwe to Algeria: China-Africa solidarity, a living tradition

2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and African nations as well as being the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. In the history of relations between China and Africa, Zimbabwe in the south of the continent and Algeria in the north may both be considered to hold a special place, in that both countries’ protracted and heroic armed struggles for national liberation against settler colonial rule were strongly supported by China from their inception and the three countries have continued to advance hand-in-hand as a community of shared future.

On June 28, Chinese President Xi Jinping replied to a letter he received from a group of veterans of Zimbabwe’s national liberation war.

In his letter, Xi noted that in their youth, the veterans devoted themselves to the great cause of national liberation, left their homelands, and forged with China a profound friendship and comradeship in the struggle. To this day, they remain deeply committed to China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa friendship, which is deeply moving.

Stressing that 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and African nations as well as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, Xi wrote that over the past 70 years, China has always been a good comrade and partner in Africa’s quest for national liberation, development and rejuvenation and against imperialism and colonialism. He also expressed the hope that the veterans will inspire more African youth to devote themselves to the cause of China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa friendship.

The veterans recently wrote to Xi, expressing gratitude for China’s valuable support for Zimbabwe’s national liberation, admiration for his leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese people in achieving remarkable accomplishments in the new era, and for forging a Chinese path to modernisation that offers valuable insights for other developing countries. They expressed pride in the all-weather Zimbabwe-China community with a shared future, pledging to dedicate themselves to carrying forward the friendship between the two countries.

A commentary carried by the Xinhua News Agency recalled that China has firmly supported Africa’s struggle against imperialism and colonialism and the continent’s cause of national liberation. During Zimbabwe’s national liberation struggle in the 1960s and 1970s, many fighters received training in China or from Chinese instructors in Africa, creating enduring stories in the history of the two countries’ relations.

Ahead of his state visit to Zimbabwe in 2015, Xi published a signed article in Zimbabwean media, recalling the profound and time-tested friendship between the two countries.

“During the national liberation struggle in Zimbabwe, the Chinese people steadfastly stood behind the Zimbabwean people as comrades in arms. I was touched to learn that many Zimbabwean freedom fighters who received training from the Chinese side both in China and at Nachingwea camp in Tanzania can still sing songs such as the ‘Three Rules of Discipline and the Eight Points for Attention’,” Xi wrote.

Is China doing “colonialism” in Africa?

In the following Substack article, ecologist and anthropologist Jason Hickel tackles a popular trope about the People’s Republic of China: that it is engaged in colonialism in Africa. Hickel shows that such a claim is historically inaccurate, analytically sloppy, and serves to obscure the continuing reality of Western neocolonial power on the continent.

The charge of Chinese colonialism, popularised in Western political discourse and media over the last two decades, equates China’s economic engagement in Africa with Western colonialism and neocolonialism. Hickel argues convincingly that this is a politically-motivated falsehood that trivialises the extreme violence of colonial rule.

The article starts by clarifying the actual characteristics of colonial and neocolonial power: military aggression, wars of regime change, proxy wars, political destabilisation, economic coercion, sanctions, financial control, loan conditionality and structural adjustment. France’s ongoing control of the CFA franc and the US network of African bases exemplify the persistence of neocolonial dynamics following the end of the colonial era.

China, by contrast, has never invaded an African country; does not engage in destabilisation; does not orchestrate coups and assassinations, control currencies, impose sanctions or attach structural adjustment conditions to loans. Nothing in China’s behaviour remotely resembles Western imperial practices.

On the question of resource extraction in Africa, the author observes that Western firms overwhelmingly dominate African mining and fossil fuel expansion; Chinese firms control only a small share. Regarding the accusations of China setting “debt traps”, Hickel notes that only 12 precent of Africa’s external debt is owed to China, compared with several times that amount owed to Western private creditors – at significantly higher interest rates and less flexible repayment terms.

Imperial power means the US and its allies can and regularly do destroy entire states halfway across the world, violating international law with impunity. They can and do bomb any individual or movement they don’t like, anywhere on the planet, for any reason. They can and do impose crushing sanctions, killing millions of people and bending governments to their will. China simply does not project this kind of power.

Western politicians and journalists often claim that China is doing “colonialism” in Africa. This narrative has roots in US government discourse going back nearly two decades, and is exemplified by a US Congressional hearing that was held under the headline “China in Africa: The New Colonialism?” In the same year, the US business magazine Forbes claimed the purpose of China’s involvement in Africa is “to exploit the people and take their resources. It’s the same thing European colonists did… except worse.”

Certainly there are reasons to criticise the activities of Chinese firms in Africa, but to claim that China is exercising colonial power within the continent — drawing a direct equivalence to Western colonialism and imperialism — is empirically incorrect, stretches these terms into meaninglessness, and amounts to denying the violence of actually-existing colonialism.

South African and Swazi communists back one-China principle

The communist parties of South Africa and Swaziland have strongly condemned the US plan to sell US$ 11 billion worth of arms to the separatist authorities in Taiwan and reaffirmed their full backing for the one-China principle.

In a January 3, 2026, statement, the South African Communist Party (SACP) said that the proposed package would represent one of the largest US weapons sales to Taiwan and the most drastic US imperialistic intervention in China’s domestic political matters in recent history. It would also grossly violate the one-China policy and the three China-US joint communiques, in addition to infringing China’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and underming peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

It added: “The SACP remains steadfast in its firm support of the one-China principle and China’s inalienable right to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

In a December 29, 2025, statement, the Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) noted: “To the Swazi people, the arming of the Taiwan administration represents not only interference in China’s internal affairs but also, direct reinforcement of the Mswati dictatorship. Such military supplies inevitably find their way into the hands of oppressive regimes, strengthening authoritarian rule and perpetuating human rights abuses in our country.”

It declared that the CPS “stands in firm solidarity with the Communist Party of China and the People’s Republic of China in all efforts to mobilise against this provocation.”

As indicated above, the proposed US action is of particular concern to the CPS. Swaziland is an absolute monarchy in which the CPS and other progressive and democratic forces have to struggle under condition of clandestinity and repression. It is also the only country in Africa that maintains so-called ‘diplomatic relations’ with the Taiwan authorities. [NOTE: King Mswati III changed the name of the country to Eswatini in April 2018 but this is not recognised by the CPS and other left-wing and progressive parties.]

Accordingly, on October 23, 2025, the CPS issued a perspectives paper on the Taiwan issue. It states that, “The CPS, as a Marxist-Leninist Party, adheres to principles that emphasise the importance of national sovereignty, anti-imperialism, and the unity of socialist states. The Party views the Taiwan issue through the lens of class struggle… [and] expresses strong solidarity with the PRC [People’s Republic of China], viewing it as a leading force in the global socialist movement.” The party’s support for the PRC’s stance on Taiwan aligns with its broader ideological commitment to socialism and the fight against imperialism. “The CPS strongly criticises any separatist movements in Taiwan, framing them as counter-revolutionary or influenced by foreign interests. We argue that such movements undermine the struggle for socialism and threaten the stability of the region.”

The perspectives note that: “By supporting the PRC’s position on Taiwan, the CPS argues that it contributes to regional stability in Southern Africa and Africa. We advocate for closer ties with other African nations that share similar views on sovereignty and territorial integrity, fostering a united front against perceived imperialist encroachments via the political base which Taiwan is establishing in Swaziland.”

The party’s advocacy for a unified stance on the Taiwan question, it argues, resonates with other political entities in Swaziland, where even ordinary people across ideological divides feel that the relationship with Taiwan, “only serves the interests of the monarchy and political elites. Setting out very well our stand on Taiwan will potentially lead to broader discussions on foreign policy and national identity for the future People’s Republic of Swaziland. This could create a political environment where socialist principles gain more traction in domestic discourse against imperialism.”

The party also highlights the economic implications of aligning with the PRC, emphasising the potential for increased and mutually beneficial investment, trade, and development collaboration with China and adds:

“The Party’s stance reflects a broader commitment to the principles of national sovereignty, anti-colonialism, and the pursuit of socialism on a global scale.”

The following articles were originally published by Solidnet and on the website of the Communist Party of Swaziland.

South African CP, SACP condemns proposed US weapons package to Taiwan, calls for respect of China’s national sovereignty

January 3 (Solidnet) – The South African Communist Party (SACP) condemns the proposed US massive arms package sale to Taiwan, valued at 11 billion dollars. If approved by the US Congress, this package would represent one of the largest US weapons packages to Taiwan and the most drastic US imperialistic intervention in China’s domestic political matters in recent history. It would also constitute one of the most aggressive actions of the US in Taiwan in violation of China’s sovereignty.

The intended arms sale would grossly violate the one-China policy and the three China-US joint communiques, in addition to infringing China’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The intended arms sale also sends an unfortunate and gravely wrong signal to “Taiwan independence” forces, wrongly interpreting a provincial, domestic internal dispute into an international question with diplomatic implications.

The SACP remains steadfast in its firm support of the one-China principle and China’s inalienable right to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In the interest of international security and global stability, the SACP calls on all countries to respect the sovereignty of other states and to stand with the Chinese people in this instance where its sovereignty is being undermined by the imperialist US regime.

CPS calls for global mobilisation denouncing USA arms deal with the Taiwan region illegitimate separatists administration.

December 29 (CPS) – The Communist Party of Swaziland (CPS) strongly condemns the recent United States $11.1 billion arms package to the Taiwan
region of China. This provocative act constitutes a blatant violation of the One-China principle and undermines regional
stability and global peace.

It is common cause to believe that the USA is either effectively donating these arms to right-wing forces in Taiwan or
laying the basis for a military presence within Chinese territory. At no point can one be convinced that the bankrupt
and poorly managed separatist administration could sustain an $11.1 billion transaction. This deal will ultimately
become another costly imperialist war burden imposed on the ordinary people of the USA.

Historically, imperialist wars financed through massive US budgets have resulted in severe economic setbacks for working
people while simultaneously undermining global peace, economic stability, and universal justice.

To the Swazi people, the arming of the Taiwan administration represents not only interference in China’s internal affairs
but also direct reinforcement of the Mswati dictatorship. Such military supplies inevitably find their way into the hands
of oppressive regimes, strengthening authoritarian rule and perpetuating human rights abuses in our country.

Whether through so-called high-level diplomatic visits or direct military transfers, these criminal packages embolden
dictatorships at the expense of the people’s freedom. This mirrors US diplomatic trends toward Swaziland that have
consistently prioritised geopolitical interests over democracy and human rights.

The CPS stands in firm solidarity with the Communist Party of China and the People’s Republic of China in all efforts to
mobilise against this provocation. We call upon all progressive forces and peace-loving people worldwide to:

Denounce US interference in China’s internal affairs.
Support the One-China principle and China’s territorial integrity.
Recognise that attacks on China’s sovereignty strengthen dictatorships everywhere.
Build international solidarity against imperialist policies that arm oppressive and illegitimate regimes.

The struggle for Taiwan’s reunification with mainland China is inseparable from our own struggle for democracy in Swaziland. Imperialism abroad reinforces dictatorship at home. Only international solidarity can bring genuine liberation for all peoples.

Long live international solidarity!
Long live the People’s Republic of China!
Down with imperialism and dictatorship!

Communist Party of Swaziland’s (CPS) Perspectives on the Taiwan Question in Swaziland.

October 23 (CPS) – Overview of the Taiwan Question

The Taiwan question is a significant geopolitical issue that has persisted since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. The island of Taiwan operates under its own government, known as the Republic of China (ROC), while the mainland is governed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland, while the separatist maintains a distinct political identity, with its own so called democratic institutions. The international community remains divided, with some countries recognizing the PRC and others maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan.

Historical Context

1. Colonial and Post-Colonial Dynamics

Taiwan’s history is marked by periods of colonial rule, first under the Dutch, then the Qing Dynasty, and later Japanese occupation. After World War II, Taiwan was placed under the control of the Nationalist government, which fled to the island following its defeat by the Communists led revolution which needed the civil war. This historical backdrop has shaped Taiwan’s identity and its complex relationship with the mainland

2. Cold War Influences

During the Cold War, Taiwan became a focal point in the struggle between communist and capitalist ideologies. The United States supported the ‘ROC’ as a counterbalance to communist expansion in Asia, leading to a complicated diplomatic landscape. The PRC, in turn, sought to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, promoting the One China principle as a means to reclaim sovereignty over the island.

3. Recent Developments

In recent years, tensions have escalated as Taiwan has moved toward a more assertive identity, with increasing support for independence among some political factions. The PRC has responded with military posturing and diplomatic pressure, to resolve this complicated the situation.

Ideological Foundations of the CPS Position

1. Marxist-Leninist Principles

The CPS, as a Marxist-Leninist Party, adheres to principles that emphasize the importance of national sovereignty, anti-imperialism, and the unity of socialist states. The Party views the Taiwan issue through the lens of class struggle, asserting that any division among socialist movements weakens the global fight against capitalism.

2. Solidarity with the PRC

The CPS expresses strong solidarity with the PRC, viewing it as a leading force in the global socialist movement. Their support for the PRC’s stance on Taiwan aligns with their broader ideological commitment to socialism and the fight against imperialism.

3. Critique of Western Imperialism

The CPS frames its position on Taiwan within a broader critique of Western imperialism, arguing that support for Taiwan’s independence is part of a strategy by imperialist powers to weaken socialist states. This perspective emphasizes the need for unity among socialist and anti Imperialist countries and forces to resist external pressures.

Specific Stances and Advocacy

1. Support for the One China Policy

The CPS actively endorse the One China policy, advocating for international recognition of the PRC’s stand that Taiwan is part of China and there is one China whose only state administration is in Beijing. This stance reflects our commitment to national sovereignty and the belief that Taiwan’s status should be resolved through peaceful means, rather than through foreign interference which practically disrupts the peace process..

2. Criticism of Separatist Movements

The CPS strongly criticizes any separatist movements in Taiwan, framing them as counter-revolutionary or influenced by foreign interests. We argue that such movements undermine the struggle for socialism and threaten the stability of the region.

3. Educational and Cultural Initiatives

The CPS will engage in educational initiatives to raise awareness about the historical context of the Taiwan issue and promote narratives that align with our principled ideological stance. This will include organising seminars, producing publications, and leveraging social media to disseminate their views.

4. Diplomatic Advocacy

The CPS call upon the governments to put pressure to ISOLATE the Mswati regime which is the HARBOUR BASE of Taiwan administration in Africa. These governments must continue to of strengthen its diplomatic ties with the PRC. We will advocate for policies that align with the PRC’s interests in the region, potentially exposing the Swaziland foreign relations with other countries as hypocrite and scandalous.

5. Collaboration with Other Leftist Movements

The CPS seek alliances with other leftist parties and organizations globally and in the country that share a similar stance on the Taiwan question. This collaboration will involve joint statements, coordinated actions, and mutual support in international forums and campaigns for democracy in the country.

Broader Implications for Domestic and Foreign Policy

1. Expose tinkundla and Mswatis Disastrous Foreign Relations

The CPS’s position on the Taiwan question significantly influence the struggle for democracy in Swaziland to assume a posture of One China Policy. This shift will weaken the strong ties that exist between the Mswati dictatorship and Taiwan , particularly given the growing influence of China in Africa whose positive outlook bypasses the people of Swaziland presently.

2. Regional Stability and Cooperation

By supporting the PRC’s position on Taiwan, the CPS argues that it contributes to regional stability in Southern Africa and Africa. We advocate for closer ties with other African nations that share similar views on sovereignty and territorial integrity, fostering a united front against perceived imperialist encroachments via the political base which Taiwan is establishing in Swaziland.

3. Impact on Local Political Dynamics

The CPS’s advocacy for a unified stance on the Taiwan question resonates with other political entities in Swaziland where even ordinary people across ideological divide, feels the Taiwan/tinkundla relationships only serves the interests of the monarchy and political elites. Setting up very well our stand on Taiwan will potentially lead to broader discussions on foreign policy and national identity for the future People’s Republic of Swaziland. This could create a political environment where socialist principles gain more traction in domestic discourse against Imperialism.

4. Economic Considerations

The CPS highlight the economic implications of aligning with the PRC, emphasizing the potential for increased investment, trade, and development mutually benefiting collaboration with China. This economic dimension is our persuasive argument for supporting the PRC’s over Taiwan.

5. Human development and Governance:

While advocating for solidarity with the PRC, the CPS promotes the achievements of the PRC government on improving the lives of ordinary people, ending poverty and improve Human development index with a stable and efficient governance and production ethics and cultural practices. The Party navigates these complexities while maintaining its ideological stance, potentially exposing criticisms of the PRC as part of an imperialist narrative which only entrenches the Mswati dictatorship and Taiwan colonial hegemony in our country.

Conclusion

The Communist Party of Swaziland’s position on the Taiwan question is deeply rooted in its Marxist-Leninist ideology, emphasizing solidarity with the PRC and opposition to perceived imperialist interventions. By advocating for the One China policy and criticizing separatism, the CPS seeks to align the struggle for democracy in Swaziland to the popular anti Imperialist campaigns to influence foreign policy with its ideological commitments, which have significant implications for the future democratic Swaziland diplomatic relations and regional dynamics. The Party’s stance reflects a broader commitment to the principles of national sovereignty, anti-colonialism, and the pursuit of socialism on a global scale. As the situation evolves, the CPS will continue to navigate the complexities of international relations while promoting its ideological clarity to explain with clarity these dynamics to the majority of our population.