Category: Africa

China has again made clear its support for Africa to be given effective representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). 

Speaking at the UNSC open debate on this topic and on addressing the historical injustice experienced by Africa, on August 12, Ambassador Fu Cong noted that the world today is undergoing major changes unseen in a century, with the rise of the Global South and the unstoppable trend of multipolarity. African countries, he said, have become a vibrant force on the global political stage, a rising player in the global economy, a core member of the Global South, an important pole in the multipolar world, and a key participant in global governance. 

Nevertheless, he said, “we regret to see that the African continent is still facing many challenges to peace and development, that African countries have not yet gained the international respect they deserve, that expectations of African people have not received sufficient attention, and that Africa’s international influence has not been on full display.”

Putting this into its correct historical context, the Chinese Ambassador noted that, the historical injustice endured by Africa is a huge moral scar on humanity and a heavy issue that the international community must face today. Historically, Western countries have imposed hundreds of years of brutal colonial rule and blatant racial discrimination on Africa. They carried out the inhumane slave trade and plundered resources, depriving the African people of the natural rights and the dignity they deserve, artificially interrupting the historical process of Africa’s development, and plunging African countries into a long period of suffering and disaster. This is the root cause of all historical injustice in Africa. Even to this day, some Western countries still cling to the colonialist mindset with a self-righteous attitude on African issues. They interfere in the internal affairs of African countries by using financial, legal, sanction-based, and even military means, and exercise unscrupulous oppression and control over African countries in the areas of currency, energy, minerals, and national defence. To rectify the historical injustice against Africa, we must, first and foremost, unequivocally oppose the legacy of colonialism and all kinds of hegemonic practices. Western countries should truly shoulder their historical responsibilities, change course, stop such wrong practices as external interference and exerting pressure through sanctions, and return the future of Africa to the hands of the African people. 

Security Council reform, he continued, is an important part of the reform of the multilateral governance architecture. Based on the common interests of the entire continent, Africa has formed a common position through the Ezulwini Consensus, which reflects the justice and legitimacy of Africa’s demand for reform and enjoys a unique moral advantage. This is fundamentally different from the practice of a few countries and interest groups who pursue their own selfish and small-circle interests when it comes to Council reform. [This may be understood to refer, in particular, to the persistent attempts by a handful of countries, principally Japan, to secure permanent UNSC membership.] African countries’ appeal to be treated as a special case and priority deserves the attention and support of the international community. China has taken the lead in its favourable response and explicit support for this request. 

The following article was originally published on the website of China’s Permanent Mission to the UN.

President, 

China welcomes President Julius Maada Bio presiding over today’s meeting, and thanks Secretary-General Antonio Gutteres, President Dennis Francis, and Ms. Sithembile Mbete for their briefings. 

The world today is undergoing major changes unseen in a century, with the rise of the Global South and the unstoppable trend of multipolarity. As the youngest continent, Africa has made decades of unremitting efforts to pursue unity and progress, to maintain multilateralism, and defend the common interests of developing countries. It has demonstrated an active African image and a strong African power. African countries have become a vibrant force on the global political stage, a rising player in the global economy, a core member of the Global South, an important polar in the multipolar world, and a key participant in global governance. 

At the same time, we regret to see that the African continent is still facing many challenges to peace and development, that African countries have not yet gained the international respect they deserve, that expectations of African people have not received sufficient attention, and that Africa’s international influence has not been on full display. China hopes that through today’s discussion, all parties will gain a more comprehensive insight into the historical injustice against Africa, see the hope for its future, and work together with African countries and their people to promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization. I wish to share the following three points.

First, the historical injustice endured by Africa is a huge moral scar on humanity and a heavy issue that the international community must face today. Historically, Western countries have imposed hundreds of years of brutal colonial rule and blatant racial discrimination on Africa. They carried out the inhumane slave trade and plundered resources, depriving the African people of the natural rights and the dignity they deserve, artificially interrupting the historical process of Africa’s development, and plunging African countries into a long period of suffering and disaster. This is the root cause of all historical injustice in Africa. Even to this day, some Western countries still cling to the colonialist mindset with a self-righteous attitude on African issues. They interfere in the internal affairs of African countries by using financial, legal, sanction-based, and even military means, and exercise unscrupulous oppression and control over African countries in the areas of currency, energy, minerals, and national defense. To rectify the historical injustice against Africa, we must, first and foremost, unequivocally oppose the legacy of colonialism and all kinds of hegemonic practices. Western countries should truly shoulder their historical responsibilities, change course, stop such wrong practices as external interference and exerting pressure through sanctions, and return the future of Africa to the hands of the African people. 

Second, the redress of historical injustice against Africa must be both holistic and focused. It is important to recognize that the injustice is systemic and structural in nature, involving various political, economic, scientific, and technological areas, and manifests itself in various aspects of rights, opportunities, and rules. This is an undeniable fact and an issue of great urgency. China believes that the primary task is to support African countries on the path of sustainable development as the foundation of lasting peace. When we look at the hot spot issues in Africa on the Council’s agenda, poverty and under-development are often common denominators. The international community should implement the UN 2030 Agenda together with AU Agenda 2063, and support Africa in its industrialization and modernization and its better participation in the international division of labor, so that it can share the dividends of economic globalization and break the vicious cycle of poverty and instability. 

Third, to rectify the historical injustice against Africa, the fundamental task is to accelerate the overhaul of the multilateral governance architecture and to enhance Africa’s representation and voice. Security Council reforms is an important part of the reform of the multilateral governance architecture. Based on the common interests of the entire continent, Africa has formed a common position through the Ezulwini Consensus, which reflects the justice and legitimacy of Africa’s demand for reform and enjoys a unique moral advantage. This is fundamentally different from the practice of a few countries and interest groups who pursue their own selfish and small-circle interests when it comes to Council reform. African countries’ appeal to be treated as a special case and priority deserves the attention and support of the international community. China has taken the lead in its favorable response and explicit support for this request. We are pleased to note that such a request has been included in Security Council reform-related text in the Pact for the Future and the IGN co-chairs elements paper, and that Africa’s demand is gaining greater understanding, recognition, and support. 

The reform of the financial architecture is another important area of multilateral governance reform. The current international financial system is unfavorable to developing countries in terms of investment and financing, credit ratings, and economic and technical assistance. It imposes many additional conditions which severely hamper the development and revitalization of African countries. The irresponsible monetary policies of some major economies have had serious spillover effects, repeatedly reaping the hard-won development gains of developing countries. Such a system is unsustainable and must be reformed and improved as soon as possible. Secretary-General Guterres and the Global South have made a strong appeal to the international community to take the Pact of the Future as an opportunity to launch truly ambitious initiatives and push for substantial steps of reform. 

President, 

China and Africa are good friends, good partners, and good brothers who are sincere and friendly based on mutual assistance and joint development. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, we have been firmly supportive of African countries’ just struggle for independence and national liberation and a development path for Africa in line with its conditions. Since the reform and opening-up of China, we have vigorously promoted mutually beneficial cooperation. In recent years, we have upheld President Xi Jinping’s principle of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests in our cooperation with Africa, and have faster tracked the building of the China-Africa community with a shared future. Under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, we have carried out all-round, multifaceted cooperation in infrastructure, trade, energy, health, digital economy, people and cultural exchanges, and other areas, benefiting the entire African continent. Early next month, the Forum will hold its summit in Beijing. China is ready to work with Africa based on our friendship and cooperation to jointly build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future China is also willing to work with international partners to sincerely help Africa develop and revitalize itself, support Africa with concrete actions to address historical injustice, promote a more just and rational new international political and economic order, abd truly enhance Africa’s representation, voice, and decision-making in the multilateral governance system. 

Thank you, President.

Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), led a party delegation to South Africa at the end of July and the beginning of August. It was the first stop on a tour of a number of countries in Africa and Latin America.

On August 1, Minister Liu met with Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa and of the Republic of South Africa.  Welcoming Liu and his delegation, Ramaphosa said that the CPC delegation’s visit to South Africa at this time (following the recent election and the formation of a government of national unity) demonstrates the Chinese side’s firm support for the ANC and South Africa. He said that he maintains close exchanges with President Xi Jinping and has forged a close friendship, of which he is proud. President Xi Jinping has visited South Africa many times, promoting bilateral relations for continuous improvement and upgrading, which has deeply moved and inspired the South African side. The South African government will keep its policies toward China unchanged and will continue to be committed to promoting the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership. South Africa firmly adheres to the one-China principle and thanks the Chinese side for its long-term valuable support and assistance.

Ramaphosa added that the leadership of the CPC is what has allowed China to realise today’s development achievements and the CPC’s achievements have also inspired the ANC. Since its establishment, the ANC has been fighting for South Africa’s national independence and development. Despite setbacks, it will not give up easily, nor will it shirk its responsibility to lead the country’s development and revitalisation. Calling the CPC a reliable friend and close comrade of the ANC, he said the ANC cherishes its sincere friendship with the CPC. 

Liu said, the Chinese side congratulates the ANC on its victory in the general election again and President Cyril Ramaphosa on his successful re-election. He voiced confidence that under the strong leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC, the government of national unity will closely unite the people and help South Africa make new development achievements. (In the election, the ANC secured 40.2% of the vote, almost twice that of its nearest rival – and now coalition partner – the Democratic Alliance [DA], which secured 21.8%.) 

China and South Africa, Liu continued, are both important members of the Global South and emerging economies. The Chinese side is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with South Africa on multilateral affairs, promote the construction of a more just and reasonable international political and economic order, and safeguard the common interests of the vast number of developing countries.

He added that the CPC and the ANC have a long-standing friendship. The Chinese side firmly believes that as a mature political party that has stood the test of the changing circumstances, the ANC will carry forward its fine traditions, firmly grasp the correct development direction of South Africa, and promote China-South Africa relations for robust development.

The previous day, Liu had met with ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula. Liu said, the Chinese side congratulates the ANC on its leadership in forming a government of national unity, which proves that the ANC is a mature century-old party with political wisdom and believes that the ANC will unite and lead the South African people to achieve new achievements in national development.

On August 1, he met with Ronald Lamola, Member of the National Executive Committee of the ANC and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. Lamola said that South Africa is grateful to the Chinese side for providing valuable support in its struggle for national independence and construction. He expressed the hope to expand mutually beneficial cooperation with the Chinese side in areas such as trade and investment. He added that the the foreign policy of the new South African government will not change, and that South Africa will continue to firmly adhere to the one-China principle and steadfastly support China’s positions on issues concerning its core interests. South Africa highly appreciates China’s significant role in promoting the improvement of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran as well as facilitating the reconciliation of Palestinian factions. He expressed the hope to strengthen coordination with the Chinese side within the BRICS cooperation mechanism and the G-20. South Africa looks forward to participating in the 2024 FOCAC (Forum on China Africa Cooperation) Summit in Beijing, this coming September, believing that it will help African countries advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and promote greater development in Africa-China relations.

On July 31, Liu met with Solly Afrika Mapaila, General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP). He congratulated the SACP on its 103rd anniversary, which fell in February. He said that the CPC and the SACP are both Marxist parties, share the same ideals and beliefs, always understand and support each other, and are time-tested good comrades and good brothers.

Mapaila said, the SACP cherishes its friendly relations with the CPC, and thanks the Chinese side for its long-term valuable assistance to South Africa’s economic and social development and the improvement of people’s livelihood, as well as its strong support for the SACP, the African National Congress and other progressive forces in South Africa.

On August 3, Liu also met with the parliamentary leaders of some of the political parties which are participating in the new government of national unity.  He met with Mzwanele Nyhontso, President of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) of Azania and Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development; Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks, President of the Al Jama-ah and Deputy Minister of Social Development; Brett Herron, Secretary-General of the GOOD Party; and Thandi Nontenja, National Treasurer of the United Democratic Movement (UDM).

Liu said, China and South Africa enjoy a time-honoured friendship. As early as in the struggle against imperialism, colonialism and racism, the two peoples have supported each other and forged a profound friendship. 

The South African party leaders thanked the Chinese side for its long-term and valuable support to the economic and social development of South Africa and expressed their hope to strengthen exchanges with the CPC and learn from its experience in party building and state governance in order to facilitate South Africa’s development and advance South Africa-China relations. 

For their part, Nyhontso said, the PAC has a long history of interacting with China, with many of its leaders and members having trained in China. He hoped to learn from China’s experience in areas such as land reform and rural development to help South Africa solve its prominent problems. [China consistently supported the PAC as one of the country’s national liberation movements during the struggle against apartheid, maintaining a close relationship for a long time.]

Hendricks fondly recalled his experience of interacting with the Chinese side and appreciated China’s great achievements in poverty alleviation. Calling the strong leadership of the CPC the key to China’s success, he said he would like to learn from the Chinese side’s experience.

Herron said, South Africa can benefit from China’s rapid economic and social development and hoped that the two countries will strengthen practical cooperation in various fields, closely coordinate and cooperate in BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms and promote a more just and equitable international order.

Nontenja said, as South Africa is undergoing special changes in its political landscape, the UDM is willing to play a role in the country’s development and hopes to strengthen exchanges with the CPC on national and party construction.  

On August 2, Liu and his delegation also held discussions with representatives from South Africa’s media and think tanks.

Following its visit to South Africa, the CPC delegation proceeded to Uruguay.

The following articles were originally published on the website of the IDCPC.

Cyril Ramaphosa, President of ANC and President of South Africa Meets with Liu Jianchao

Johannesburg, August 1st (IDCPC) — Cyril Ramaphosa, President of African National Congress (ANC) and President of South Africa, met here today with Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee.

Ramaphosa welcomed Liu and the CPC delegation. He said, the CPC delegation’s visit to South Africa, which is experiencing a special moment now, demonstrates the Chinese side’s firm support for the ANC and South Africa. I maintain close exchanges with President Xi Jinping and have forged a close friendship, which I am proud of. President Xi Jinping has visited South Africa many times, promoting bilateral relations for continuous improvement and upgrading, which has deeply moved and inspired the South African side. The South African government will keep its policies toward China unchanged, and will continue to be committed to promoting the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership between South Africa and China. South Africa firmly adheres to the one-China principle and thanks the Chinese side for its long-term valuable support and assistance. 

Ramaphosa said, the leadership of the CPC is what allowed China to realize today’s development achievements, and the CPC’s achievements have also inspired the ANC. Since its establishment, the ANC has been fighting for South Africa’s national independence and development. Despite setbacks, it will not give up easily, nor will it shirk its responsibility to lead the country’s development and revitalization. Calling the CPC a reliable friend and close comrade of the ANC, he said the ANC cherishes its sincere friendship with the CPC and hopes to further strengthen exchanges between the two Parties at all levels and strengthen experience exchanges in national construction and party building.

Liu said, the Chinese side congratulates the ANC on its victory in the general election again and President Cyril Ramaphosa on his successful re-election. Liu voiced confidence that under the strong leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC, the government of national unity will closely unite the people and help South Africa make new development achievements. In August last year, President Xi Jinping successfully visited South Africa and reached important consensus with President Cyril Ramaphosa, charting the course for the further development of relations between the two countries. The Chinese side is willing to work with the South African side to implement the consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, deepen political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation in various fields, firmly support each other on issues involving each other’s core interests, and promote China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership for new and greater development. China and South Africa are both important members of the Global South and emerging economies. The Chinese side is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with South Africa on multilateral affairs, promote the construction of a more just and reasonable international political and economic order, and safeguard the common interests of the vast number of developing countries. 

Liu said, the CPC and the ANC have a long-standing friendship. The Chinese side firmly believes that as a mature political party that has stood the test of the changing circumstances, the ANC will carry forward its fine traditions, firmly grasp the correct development direction of South Africa, and promote China-South Africa relations for robust development. The Chinese side is willing to strengthen institutionalized exchanges with the ANC as always, deepen exchanges and mutual learning of experience in party building and state governance, enhance its own governing capacity, and promote China-South Africa relations to a new level.

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Liu Jianchao Meets with Fikile Mbalula, Secretary-General of African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa

Pretoria, July 31st (IDCPC) — Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with Fikile Mbalula, Secretary-General of African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa.

Liu said, the Chinese side congratulates the ANC on its leadership in forming a government of national unity, which proves that the ANC is a mature century-old party with political wisdom, and believes that the ANC will unite and lead the South African people to achieve new achievements in national development. Under the new circumstances, the CPC is willing to work with the ANC to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and two countries, maintain high-level strategic communication and political mutual trust, continue to firmly support each other on issues involving respective core interests, deepen exchanges and mutual learning of experience in state governance and administration, and bring China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level. The Chinese side is willing to, together with the South African side, strengthen coordination and cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the BRICS cooperation mechanism and the Group of 20, promote common development of the Global South countries, and jointly safeguard international fairness and justice. 

Mbalula said, the ANC and the CPC have a long-standing friendship, and the relationship between the two Parties is an important foundation for the relationship between South Africa and China. The ANC congratulated the CPC on the successful holding of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. Mbalula introduced relevant situation of the South African general election of 2024, and said that the ANC will hold a National Executive Committee meeting to thoroughly summarize the experience and lessons. Calling China a reliable friend of South Africa, the ANC thanks the Chinese side for the long-term valuable support and assistance to South Africa. The South African government’s long-term commitment to the one-China principle will not change, and its friendly policy toward China will not change. Under the new situation, the ANC is willing to continue to strengthen high-level exchanges with the CPC, and learn experience in governing the Party and the country from the CPC, so as to overcome the current challenges, achieve self-reform, and lead the country to develop better. 

Lindiwe Zulu, Member of the ANC National Executive Committee, Nokuthula Nqaba, Secretary General of ANC Women’s League and others, were present.

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Liu Jianchao Meets with Ronald Lamola, Member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Pretoria, August 1st (IDCPC) — Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with Ronald Lamola, Member of the National Executive Committee of the African National Congress (ANC) and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.

Liu stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa have provided important strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations, ushering in a “golden era” of building a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future. The Chinese side is willing to work with the South African side to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state. Focusing on the implementation of the “Nine Programs” of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the 10 Years Strategic Programme on Cooperation between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa (2020-2029), both sides need to strengthen the deep alignment of development strategies, consolidate cooperation in advantageous areas, cultivate new growth drivers for cooperation, achieve mutual benefits, win-win results and common development, and continuously benefit the people of both countries. 

Liu said, both China and South Africa are influential developing countries and emerging market nations. The Chinese side supports the South African side in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs and is willing to continue to work with the South African side under multilateral mechanisms such as the BRICS cooperation mechanism and the Group of 20, practice true multilateralism, strengthen the Global South countries’ representation and voice in the global governance system, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries. The new meeting of the FOCAC will be held in Beijing. The Chinese side is willing to work with African countries, including South Africa, to achieve more win-win outcomes in China-Africa cooperation.

Lamola stated, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s successful visit to South Africa last year injected strong impetus into the future development of bilateral relations. South Africa is grateful to the Chinese side for providing valuable support in its struggle for national independence and construction. He expressed the hope to expand mutually beneficial cooperation with the Chinese side in areas such as trade and investment. The South African side also hoped that the Chinese side can help it address prominent issues in its development process, advance industrialization, and promote the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between South Africa and China. He said the foreign policy of the new South African government will not change and that South Africa will continue to firmly adhere to the one-China principle, steadfastly support China’s positions on issues concerning China’s core interests related to the Taiwan question, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Xizang. South Africa highly appreciates China’s significant role in promoting the improvement of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and facilitating the reconciliation of Palestinian factions. He expressed the hope to strengthen coordination with the Chinese side within BRICS and the Group of 20. South Africa looks forward to participating in the 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing, believing that the summit will help African countries advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and promote greater development in Africa-China relations. 

Both sides exchanged views on international and regional issues such as the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

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Liu Jianchao Meets with Solly Afrika Mapaila, General Secretary of the South African Communist Party

Pretoria, July 31st (IDCPC) — Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with Solly Afrika Mapaila, General Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP).

Liu congratulated the SACP on its 103rd anniversary. He said that the CPC and the SACP are both Marxist parties, share the same ideals and beliefs, always understand and support each other, and are time-tested good comrades and good brothers. Under the new situation, the CPC is willing to work with the SACP to implement the important consensus reached by President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, continue to deepen strategic communication, strengthen experience exchanges on issues such as party building, promote practical cooperation in various fields, better promote the construction of respective countries, and bring more benefits to the people of the two countries. 

Mapaila said, the SACP cherishes its friendly relations with the CPC, and thanks the Chinese side for its long-term valuable assistance to South Africa’s economic, social development and improvement of people’s livelihood, as well as the strong support for the SACP, the African National Congress and other progressive forces in South Africa. Under the new situation of the formation of a government of national unity in South Africa, the SACP hopes to strengthen exchanges with the CPC, deepen experience exchanges in state governance and administration, and promote South Africa-China relations for greater development. Mapaila also introduced the situation of the South African general election of 2024 and the current political situation in conjunction with the process of South Africa’s national democratic revolution. 

Joyce Moloi-Moropa, SACP National Treasurer, Cde Thulas Nxesi, SACP Deputy National Chairperson, Jenny Schreiner, Member of SACP Political Bureau and others, were present.

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Liu Jianchao Meets with Party Leaders in the National Assembly of South Africa

Cape Town, August 3rd (IDCPC) — Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with the leaders of some parties in the National Assembly of South Africa. Mzwanele Nyhontso, President of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) of Azania and Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks, President of the Al Jama-ah and Deputy Minister of Social Development, Brett Herron, Secretary-General of the GOOD Party, and Thandi Nontenja, National Treasurer of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), attended the meeting.

Liu said, China and South Africa enjoy a time-honored friendship. As early as in the struggle against imperialism, colonialism and racism, the two peoples have supported each other and forged a profound friendship. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 26 years ago, the two sides have upheld sincerity and friendship with bilateral relations continuously reaching new heights. Under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, China-South Africa relations have entered a “golden era”. The Chinese side is willing to work with the South African side to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, firmly support each other on issues that bear on our respective core interests and are of major concern to us, expand practical cooperation in various fields, and continuously enrich the connotation of the China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership.  

Liu said, relations between political parties are a vital part of state-to-state relations. The CPC is willing to strengthen communication and exchanges with the political parties in the National Assembly of South Africa, exchange views on important issues of common concern, enhance mutual understanding, further gather the forces of China-South Africa friendship, and push China-South Africa relations to a new height to bring more benefits to the two peoples. Liu also introduced the major experience of China’s economic and social development and the main features of Chinese modernization.  

The party leaders thanked the Chinese side for its long-term and valuable support to the economic and social development of South Africa, and expressed their hope to strengthen exchanges with the CPC and learn from the CPC’s experience in party building and state governance to facilitate South Africa’s development and advance South Africa-China relations.  

Nyhontso said, the PAC has a long history with interacting with China, with many of its leaders and members trained in China. He hoped to learn from China’s experience in areas such as land reform and rural development to help South Africa solve its prominent problems. Hendricks fondly recalled his experience of interacting with the Chinese side and appreciated China’s great achievements in poverty alleviation. Calling the strong leadership of the CPC the key to China’s success, he said he would like to learn from the Chinese side’s experience. Herron said, South Africa can benefit from China’s rapid economic and social development, and hoped that the two countries will strengthen practical cooperation in various fields, closely coordinate and cooperate in BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, and promote a more just and equitable international order. Nontenja said, as South Africa is undergoing special changes in its political landscape, the UDM is willing to play a role in the country’s development, hoping to strengthen exchanges with the CPC on national and party construction. 

As part of a regional tour, Zhai Jun, the Chinese government’s Special Envoy for Middle East issues, visited Algeria on July 3, which afforded both governments the opportunity to reiterate their long-standing solidarity forged during the Algerian people’s war of independence against French colonialism. 

Meeting Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf, Zhai Jun warmly congratulated Algeria on the upcoming 62nd anniversary of the victory of the independence revolution, and thanked Algeria for its consistent and firm support for the Chinese side on issues related to China’s core interests. He said that China will continue to firmly support Algeria in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and following a development path that suits its national conditions to achieve national development and revitalisation. 

Ahmed Attaf said that the traditional friendship between Algeria and China has deep roots and a time-honoured history, and the Chinese side has provided valuable support for Algeria’s independence revolution, which has been remembered by the Algerian people for generations. Algeria is willing to actively participate in the preparations for this autumn’s summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and to contribute to its success.

The following report was originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

On July 3, 2024, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue visited Algeria, during which he met with Foreign Minister of Algeria Ahmed Attaf and had an exchange of views on bilateral relations as well as the development of China-Arab States Cooperation Forum and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Zhai Jun warmly congratulated Algeria on the upcoming 62nd anniversary of the victory of the independence revolution, and thanked Algeria for its consistent and firm support for the Chinese side on issues related to China’s core interests. He said that China will continue to firmly support Algeria in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and following a development path that suits its national conditions to achieve national development and revitalization. China is ready to take the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries as an opportunity to deepen practical cooperation between the two countries in infrastructure construction, energy and mining, finance, information and communications, digital economy and other fields, so as to continuously enrich the connotation of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. China is ready to work with Algeria to make good preparations for the summit of the FOCAC and to promote the sustained and in-depth development of China-Africa relations.

Ahmed Attaf said that the traditional friendship between Algeria and China has deep roots and a time-honored history, and the Chinese side has provided valuable support for Algeria’s independence revolution, which has been remembered by the Algerian people for generations. In recent years, Algeria-China relations have maintained high-level development, and the Algerian side is greatly proud of this. Algeria is ready to work with China to further deepen the friendly cooperation in investment, artificial intelligence, mining and other areas to take the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries to a new level. Algeria is willing to actively participate in the preparations for the summit of the FOCAC and contribute to the success of the summit.

On the same day, Special Envoy Zhai Jun held talks with Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Algeria Lounes Magramane, and they had an exchange of views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest and concern.

The President of Guinea-Bissau Umaro Sissoco Embalo paid a state visit to China from July 9-13 at the invitation of his counterpart, Xi Jinping. 

At their meeting on July 10, the two leaders elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

President Xi noted that in recent years, China and Guinea-Bissau have deepened bilateral relations, strengthened political mutual trust, expanded pragmatic cooperation and enhanced international coordination. China supports Guinea-Bissau in independently exploring a development path that suits its national conditions. He stressed that China stands ready to strengthen friendly exchanges with Guinea-Bissau at all levels, enhance experience-sharing on governance, and expand cooperation in areas such as agriculture, mining, infrastructure construction and the blue economy under the guidance of the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China is willing to continue to provide support within its capacity for Guinea-Bissau’s domestic construction and will continue to send its rice experts and medical teams to assist Guinea-Bissau in ensuring food security and developing public health, he added, calling on the two sides to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in education, youth and other fields to bring the two peoples’ hearts closer.

Both China and Africa have splendid civilisations, both have suffered from the painful history of colonisation and aggression, and both cherish and pursue national independence and liberation, Xi said, adding that mutual support and assistance between China and African countries are sincere and genuine. China and African countries are good brothers with sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and offer an exemplary model for unity and cooperation between developing nations.

Noting that two weeks ago, the commemorative events marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were held in Beijing, and this autumn, a new Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit will be held in Beijing, Xi said China is willing to work with Guinea-Bissau and other African countries to champion the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, discuss major plans for China-Africa cooperation in the new era, safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, and jointly build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.

Embalo said Guinea-Bissau and China enjoy a solid and cordial relationship marked by unwavering mutual support, adding that whenever Guinea-Bissau faces difficulties, China has always provided invaluable assistance without hesitation, a gesture that the people of Guinea-Bissau will never forget.

Guinea-Bissau admires China’s remarkable development achievements and regards China as its top priority in foreign relations and most important partner. China, he added, has never engaged in colonialism, interfered in the internal affairs of other countries, or pointed fingers at other countries, and China has always treated small countries with equality and respect, consistently matching its words with actions.

Noting that China has brought cooperation projects to Africa, including schools, hospitals and roads, delivering benefits to the African people, Embalo said Guinea-Bissau greatly appreciates China’s important role and positive contributions in helping the development of the African continent, and actively supports China in hosting the new FOCAC Summit. Guinea-Bissau supports the BRI, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative proposed by President Xi and is willing to closely communicate and cooperate with China on multilateral affairs, to jointly build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Meeting Li Qiang on the same day, the Chinese Premier noted that China and Guinea-Bissau are reliable good brothers and good partners. China always attaches importance to developing friendly cooperative relations with Guinea-Bissau. He added that China supports the people of Guinea-Bissau in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and supports Guinea-Bissau in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests.

Noting that Guinea-Bissau sincerely appreciates China’s long-term valuable support for its economic and social development, Embalo said Guinea-Bissau is willing to further strengthen practical cooperation with China in various fields such as economy, trade and infrastructure construction, and continue to move forward for common development.

Announcing  Embalo’s visit at a Foreign Ministry press conference, spokesperson Lin Jian  noted that the Chinese people firmly supported the people of Guinea-Bissau in their struggle for national independence and liberation in the 1970s. And giving a press conference at Bissau airport prior to his departure for China, Embalo said the two countries “have been traditional partners since the beginning of the national liberation struggle of Guinea-Bissau.” 

In a generally hostile article, Germany’s Deutsche Welle nevertheless noted, “Bissau and Beijing are already collaborating in the areas of education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, fisheries and defence. Ahead of the state visit, the next joint projects were announced: China will finance a large conference centre for the upcoming rotating presidency of Guinea-Bissau in the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). Additionally, 300 kilometres of roads will be renovated. Furthermore, a new university campus for 12,000 students will be constructed, among other investments, the Bissau-Guinean president announced.

“‘Before we set off for Beijing, China had already announced a donation of $27.5 million for Guinea-Bissau,’ said  Embalo.” 

It quotes local journalist Bacar Camara as saying that “the relationships date back to the 1970s when Mao Zedong’s China supported our freedom fighter Amilcar Cabral in his fight against the Portuguese colonial rulers. The first soldiers of the liberation organisation PAIGC [the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde] were trained militarily in China.”

(Besides leading the liberation struggle in Guinea-Bissau, Amilcar Cabral was also a significant and creative Marxist-Leninist thinker and theoretician.)

A scholarly article in the journal International History Review dates the relationship between China and the PAIGC to May 1960. A touching feature article carried by the Xinhua News Agency to coincide with the state visit underlined the longevity of this fraternal relationship of solidarity. 

According to Xinhua: “In the square outside the east entrance of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping held an official welcome ceremony for President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday, featuring a unique touch: the playing of Guinea-Bissau’s national anthem, ‘This Is Our Well Beloved Motherland.’

“The anthem, written by Guinea-Bissau’s founding father Amilcar Lopes Cabral, has a surprising composer – Chinese musician Xiao He. In the later official meeting between the two presidents, Xi talked with a smile about this intriguing detail. ‘China and Guinea-Bissau have a special history of friendship,’ he said. ‘The national anthem of Guinea-Bissau, ‘This Is Our Well Beloved Motherland,’ which was played at the welcome ceremony just now, was written by Amilcar Lopes Cabral, the founding father of Guinea-Bissau, and composed by Chinese musician Xiao He.”

In response, Embalo said: “President Xi mentioned our national anthem just now, which we sing every day. It was written by our founding father and composed by a Chinese friend. This is something we will never forget.”

He also highlighted China’s support before and after the founding of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, saying the two peoples have always stood together.

The history of the national anthem traces back to 1963, when a delegation from then Portuguese Guinea visited China and heard a piece of music by Xiao He. Cabral, a member of the delegation, then asked Xiao to compose a piece that would inspire his people in their fight for independence. Xiao gladly agreed. Drawing inspiration from African music and set to a 1963 poem by Cabral, Xiao composed a song which later became the national anthem of the western African country.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

Continue reading China and Guinea-Bissau elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message to Cyril Ramaphosa on June 15, congratulating him on his reelection as President of the Republic of South Africa. 

In his message, Xi noted that China and South Africa have profound political mutual trust and fruitful practical cooperation in various fields, which is a model of solidarity and cooperation among developing countries and the Global South.

The following article was first published by the Xinhua News Agency.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Cyril Ramaphosa who was reelected as president of South Africa on Friday.

In his message, Xi noted that China and South Africa have profound political mutual trust and fruitful practical cooperation in various fields, which is a model of solidarity and cooperation among developing countries and the Global South.

Xi said that during his fourth state visit to South Africa in August last year, he and Ramaphosa reached important consensus on a wide range of issues, marking a new chapter in building a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future.

Xi also said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-South Africa relations and stands ready to work with Ramaphosa to elevate the China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level and jointly contribute to world peace, stability, and prosperity.

Cai Dafeng, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC), visited Namibia from May 30 to June 2 at the invitation of the country’s National Assembly.

Meeting Namibian leaders, Cai said that China and Namibia have been good friends and partners since the establishment of diplomatic ties 34 years ago.

China and Namibia formally established diplomatic relations on the day after the country gained its national independence from the colonial rule of the then racist apartheid regime in South Africa. However, the friendship and solidarity between the two countries were forged from the 1960s onwards, as China extended strong material and moral support to Namibia’s armed liberation struggle.

Accordingly, the Namibian side thanked China for its selfless support during its struggle for national independence as well as in subsequent nation-building.

During his stay in the capital Windhoek, Cai also visited the Independence Memorial Museum, which focuses on the country’s resistance against colonialism and its national liberation movement. Located on Robert Mugabe Avenue, named for the leader of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, the museum was built by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), another socialist country that fully supported the Namibian liberation movement.

The following article was originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

WINDHOEK, June 2 (Xinhua) — Cai Dafeng, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress, visited Namibia from May 30 to June 2 at the invitation of the Namibian National Assembly.

During the four-day trip, Cai held talks with Namibian Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Speaker of the National Assembly Peter Hitjitevi Katjavivi, and Chairperson of the National Council Lukas Sinimbo Muha.

Cai said that China and Namibia have been good friends and partners since the establishment of diplomatic ties 34 years ago. The two sides have maintained sincere friendship, treated each other as equals through thick and thin, and forged ahead together.

He said that China will continue to be Namibia’s companion on its road to development and revitalization, to further advance the China-Namibia comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation and achieve new results.

Cai briefed the Namibian officials on China’s modernization drive, the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, to be held in Beijing this autumn, as well as China’s push for national revitalization through science and education.

The Namibian side thanked China for its selfless support during its struggle for national independence and nation-building, reiterated its adherence to the one-China principle, and highlighted the important role of working together through the Belt and Road Initiative and forums such as FOCAC.

The Namibian officials also expressed the hope to learn from China’s development experience and its advanced technologies, and to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in various fields.

During his stay in Windhoek, the Namibian capital, Cai also visited the Independence Memorial Museum, which focuses on the country’s resistance against colonialism and its national liberation movement. 

Our special article on the history of the revolutionary struggle of Niger’s Sawaba Party, published on June 4, concluded that: “Today Niger and China have strong economic and political relations.”

The same day, the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry reported that Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong (who prior to his recent appointment served as Ambassador to South Africa) had met in Beijing with the visiting  Nigerien Minister of State for National Defence Salifou Mody and his delegation.

Chen said that no matter how the international situation changes, China and Niger have always firmly trusted and supported each other. China is ready to work with Niger to enhance political mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation in various fields for the benefit of the two peoples.

Mody said that China is a trusted strategic partner of Niger and his country is grateful for China’s assistance in Niger’s national construction.

The below article was first published in English translation on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

On June 4, 2024, Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong met with Niger’s Minister of State for National Defense Salifou Mody and his delegation, who are on a visit to China.

Chen Xiaodong said that the friendship between China and Niger has a long history. Regardless of the changes in the international landscape, China and Niger have always firmly trusted and supported each other. China is ready to continuously enhance political mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation in various fields with Niger to benefit the two peoples. The new summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will be held in Beijing in September this year. China welcomes Niger’s active participation in the summit to jointly discuss the development plans for China-Africa and China-Niger cooperation.

Salifou Mody said, Niger adheres to the one-China principle and stands ready to work with China to firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests. Noting that China is a trustworthy strategic partner of Niger, he thanked China for its help in Niger’s national development. Niger is willing to take the Beijing Summit of the FOCAC as an opportunity to further deepen cooperation with China in various fields.

The long-standing friendship between China and Tanzania was reaffirmed with a recent visit to Beijing by Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, January Yusuf Makamba.

On May 17, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi welcomed Makamba’s visit to China on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. He said that China-Tanzania relations had always been at the forefront of China-Africa relations over the past six decades, which set a good example for developing countries to seek strength through solidarity and mutual assistance.

He added that China appreciated Tanzania’s long-term valuable support on issues concerning China’s core interests and was willing to continue to firmly support Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests, and in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions.

Wang went on to say that the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is the most important platform and mechanism for strengthening solidarity and cooperation between China and Africa. A new FOCAC summit will be held in Beijing this autumn. China sincerely invites Tanzania to join in this event together with other African countries and make a greater contribution to the building of an even stronger China-Africa community with a shared future.

Noting that Tanzania and China enjoy profound traditional friendship, Makamba said that the two countries had always trusted and supported each other since the establishment of diplomatic ties 60 years ago. Upholding the one-China policy is the cornerstone of Tanzania’s relations with China and Tanzania will continue to unswervingly support China on issues concerning its core interests and major concerns.

The following article was originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

BEIJING, May 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with January Yusuf Makamba, Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, in Beijing on Friday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, welcomed Makamba’s visit to China on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. He said that China-Tanzania relations had always been at the forefront of China-Africa relations over the past 60 years, which set a good example for developing countries to seek strength through solidarity and mutual assistance.

China is willing to deepen political mutual trust, strengthen strategic alignment, expand practical cooperation and inject new connotation of the era into the China-Tanzania comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership guided by the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, Wang said.

He said that China appreciated Tanzania’s long-term valuable support on issues concerning China’s core interests, and was willing to continue to firmly support Tanzania in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests, and independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions.

The two sides should expand cooperation in key areas such as trade and infrastructure, and tap potential for cooperation in processing and manufacturing, digital economy, blue economy and new energy, Wang added.

Wang said that the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is the most important platform and mechanism for strengthening solidarity and cooperation between China and Africa. A new FOCAC summit will be held in Beijing this autumn. China sincerely invites Tanzania to join in this event together with other African countries and make greater contribution to the building of an even stronger China-Africa community with a shared future.

Noting that Tanzania and China enjoy profound traditional friendship, Makamba said that the two countries had always trusted and supported each other since the establishment of diplomatic ties 60 years ago. Upholding the one-China policy is the cornerstone of Tanzania’s relations with China, and Tanzania will continue to unswervingly support China on issues concerning China’s core interests and major concerns.

Tanzania looks forward to enhancing exchanges of experience on governance, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and working closely with China on international and regional issues. Tanzania will actively participate in this year’s FOCAC summit and believes that the summit will achieve greater success, he said.

The two sides also exchanged in-depth views on international and regional issues of common concern.

The Central African Republic (CAR) is one of a number of African countries that are increasingly asserting their independence, having long languished under French neo-colonial domination, in particular, decades after achieving formal independence.

It is against this background that CAR Foreign Minister Sylvie Baipo-Temon recently visited China at the invitation of her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Meeting Baipo-Temon on April 15, Wang said that always regards the Central African Republic as a good friend and partner. 

Alluding to the imperialist pressure on the country, he added that China will continue to support the Central African Republic in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, and speak up for the country at the UN Security Council and on multilateral occasions.

He added that China is willing to enhance cooperation with the Central African Republic in such areas as infrastructure construction, green development, medical and health care, education and training, and security and law enforcement. 

Baipo-Temon expressed appreciation for China’s adherence to the principle of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, saying that the Central African Republic abides firmly by the one-China principle and supports China firmly in safeguarding its core interests.

The Central African Republic is also a firm supporter of the global initiatives that China has proposed, and is willing to enhance friendly cooperation with China in various fields to achieve win-win results, she said, adding that the country will participate in the next meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, due to be held in Beijing in September, to promote the construction of an Africa-China community with a shared future.

The following article was originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

BEIJING, April 15 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Central African Republic Sylvie Baipo-Temon in Beijing on Monday, with both sides pledging to enhance cooperation in various fields.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that China always regards the Central African Republic as a good friend and partner. He said that China will continue to support the Central African Republic in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, and speak up for the country at the UN Security Council and on multilateral occasions.

China will work with the Central African Republic to deepen strategic mutual trust and friendly cooperation, and make joint efforts to build a strategic partnership, Wang added.

He said that China is willing to enhance cooperation with the Central African Republic in such areas as infrastructure construction, green development, medical and health care, education and training, and security and law enforcement. China hopes that the Central African Republic will create a safe environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in the country.

Baipo-Temon expressed appreciation for China’s adherence to the principle of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, saying that the Central African Republic abides firmly by the one-China principle and supports China firmly in safeguarding its core interests.

The Central African Republic is also a firm supporter of the global initiatives that China has proposed, and it is willing to enhance friendly cooperation with China in various fields to achieve win-win results, she said, adding that the country will participate in the next meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to promote the construction of an Africa-China community with a shared future.

After their talks, the two foreign ministries issued a joint statement on promoting the implementation of the three global initiatives.

China and Tanzania have celebrated the 60th anniversary of their establishment of diplomatic relations. Tanzania has always enjoyed particularly close and friendly relations with China, which were forged by Chairman Mao Zedong, Premier Zhou Enlai and President Julius Nyerere.

Marking the 60th anniversary, on April 26, President Xi Jinping exchanged messages with his Tanzanian counterpart Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Noting that the traditional friendship between China and Tanzania was forged by the elder generations of leaders of the two countries, Xi said that in recent years, political mutual trust between the two countries has been continuously consolidated, and cooperation in various fields has yielded fruitful results, which has become a model of South-South cooperation.

For her part, Hassan said over the past 60 years since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the two countries have continuously deepened solidarity, friendship and sincere cooperation, adding that both sides respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as support each other in bilateral and multilateral affairs. Tanzania, she added, admires China’s epoch-making achievements in economic and social development.

Earlier, on April 15, the two countries held a joint celebration of the anniversary in the former Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam. 

Speaking there, Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian said that in the 1960s, when national liberation movements were in full swing in Africa, China stood firmly with Tanzania and other African countries and forged a profound friendship with them.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

Xi exchanges congratulations with Tanzanian president over 60th anniversary of ties

BEIJING, April 26 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday exchanged congratulations with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan over the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties.

In his message, Xi pointed out that the traditional friendship between China and Tanzania was forged by the elder generations of leaders of the two countries.

Over the past 60 years since its establishment, the bilateral relationship has withstood the test of international vicissitudes and grown stronger, he added.

In recent years, political mutual trust between the two countries has been continuously consolidated, and cooperation in various fields has yielded fruitful results, which has become a model of South-South cooperation, Xi noted.

Standing at a new historical starting point, Xi said he is ready to work with Hassan to renew bilateral traditional friendship, turn the shared dream of developing and rejuvenating their two countries, as well as the magnificent chapter of bilateral Belt and Road cooperation a reality, continue to enrich the connotation of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, and make greater contributions to building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.

For her part, Hassan said over the past 60 years since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the two countries have continuously deepened solidarity, friendship and sincere cooperation, adding that both sides respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as support each other in bilateral and multilateral affairs.

Tanzania admires China’s epoch-making achievements in economic and social development, deeply appreciates China’s support in the field of development, and will unswervingly support major initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, so as to strengthen the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, she said.

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China, Tanzania celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations

DAR ES SALAAM, April 15 (Xinhua) — China and Tanzania held a reception in the Tanzanian port city of Dar es Salaam on Monday to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The celebrations, braced by Tanzanian Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation January Makamba and Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian, were also attended by overseas Chinese in Tanzania and Tanzanian government officials.

The reception was highlighted by a photo exhibition, jointly organized by the Chinese embassy and Xinhua News Agency, depicting the practical cooperation between the two countries over the past 60 years.

Makamba said the friendship between the two countries has withstood the test of time and the relationship is much stronger today.

Chen said the past 60 years have marked a period of solidarity and unity between China and Tanzania, characterized by sincere cooperation, common development and shared ideas, as well as mutual support.

She said in the 1960s, when national liberation movements were in full swing in Africa, China stood firmly with Tanzania and other African countries and forged a profound friendship with them.

On April 26, 1964, the People’s Republic of China and the United Republic of Tanzania formally established diplomatic relations.