Category: Solidarity

Liu Jianchao visits Algeria

Following his recent visit to South Africa, where he attended the Liberation Movements Summit, Liu Jianchao, Minister of the Communist Party of China’s International Department (IDCPC), paid a visit to Algeria.

On July 28, he met with Abdelkrim Benmebarek, Secretary-General of the National Liberation Front (FLN) of Algeria.

Liu said, for a long time, China and Algeria have always stood firmly together in their respective struggles for national liberation and development. Seventy years ago, China and Algeria jointly promoted the formation of the Bandung spirit of solidarity, friendship and cooperation. The current global governance system is characterised by imbalance and disorder, with rising isolationism and neocolonialism, posing severe challenges to the development of the Global South countries. China is willing to work with Algeria to inherit and carry forward the Bandung spirit, enhance communication and coordination on international and regional issues, promote solidarity and cooperation among the Global South countries, and jointly address global challenges.

He added that the CPC and the FLN share similar ideas and have similar experiences in the struggle. Under the new circumstances, the CPC is willing to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state through inter-party channels, further enhance the level of cooperation between the two parties, increase political mutual trust and mutual understanding, and be fellow companions sharing the same ideals; strengthen political dialogue, deepen cooperation in areas such as party building and cadre training, and serve the cause of the two parties; promote exchanges and practical cooperation in various fields such as social organisations, media, think tanks and localities through the “political party +” platform, and promote greater development of China-Algeria relations.

Benmebarek said, the friendship between Algeria and China is close and solid and has been tested over time. The FLN and the CPC share similar views on many issues and have a common vision for maintaining international fairness and justice, which stems from our joint struggle for national liberation. The FLN values the brotherly friendship with the CPC and hopes to work with the CPC to keep pace with the times, comprehensively plan cooperation, and enhance personnel exchanges and ideological exchanges.

The next day, Liu met with Mustapha Haidaoui, President of the Supreme Youth Council and Minister of Youth of Algeria.

He said that the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. The successful practice of Chinese modernisation demonstrates that modernisation is not the same as Westernisation, and that there are diverse paths to modernisation. China is willing to work with Algeria to uphold independence and self-reliance, pursue development paths that suit respective national conditions, and advance progress in modernisation progress. China, Algeria, and other developing countries should strengthen solidarity and cooperation to safeguard the common interests of the Global South countries and promote a more just and equitable international order.

Liu noted that young people are the future and the hope of the country. The CPC has always attached great importance to youth work. General Secretary Xi Jinping has repeatedly encouraged young Chinese people to carry forward the spirit of struggle and contribute their strength to Chinese modernisation in the new era. The CPC is willing to work with the Supreme Youth Council of Algeria to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state on the China-Algeria comprehensive strategic partnership, intensify exchanges and cooperation between young politicians, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, strengthen mutual learning of experience in state governance and administration, and strengthen strategic coordination in politics, economy, science and technology, so that the younger generations of the two countries can take up the baton of the traditional China-Algeria friendship.

Haidaoui stated that the friendship between Algeria and China is unbreakable, and China is a strategic partner of Algeria. The aim of establishing the Supreme Youth Council is to empower young people, expand their participation in the country’s political, economic, cultural, and social life, carry forward the revolutionary legacy, and contribute to national development. The Supreme Youth Council has benefited greatly from the exchanges with the CPC and looks forward to strengthening exchanges and cooperation in politics, economy, and the international field, carrying forward the revolutionary friendship between Algeria and China, creating more positive conditions for all-round cooperation between the two countries, and helping build a better multipolar world.

On July 29, Liu visited the Tipaza Provincial Party headquarters of the FLN He said, the CPC is ready to carry forward the revolutionary friendship with the National Liberation Front, deepen exchanges of experience in grassroots party building, and empower both parties to lead their respective countries towards better development.

That day, he also met with two other Algerian political parties.

Continue reading Liu Jianchao visits Algeria

Vietnam and China to celebrate key anniversaries

Socialist neighbours China and Vietnam have confirmed that they will exchange high level delegations on the upcoming 80th anniversaries of Vietnam’s August Revolution and National Day along with the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.

The pledge came when Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man met with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 29, on the sidelines of the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament (WCSP 6).

Tran Thanh Man affirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State and people highly evaluated Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping’s recent state visit to Vietnam, calling it a historic milestone and a bright highlight in the bilateral relations in 2025.

The Vietnamese top legislator further noted that the bilateral relations have seen remarkable progress, with growing political trust between the two Parties and States, increasingly comprehensive and effective cooperation mechanisms, and closer legislative ties. He informed his Chinese counterpart that the Vietnamese National Assembly is actively preparing for the first session of the Vietnam–China Inter-Parliamentary Committee and expressed his hope to welcome Chairman Zhao to Vietnam to co-chair this important event.

Both sides shared delight at the upcoming participation of senior leaders from the two countries in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s August Revolution and National Day, as well as the 80th anniversary of the Chinese people’s victory against fascism.

The next day Vietnam’s Nhân Dân newspaper reported that the first joint army training exercise of the Vietnamese and Chinese ground forces had wrapped up at the Jianglong Chongzuo Training Base in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on July 30.

The exercise, which ran from July 21-30, focused on major military disciplines such as reconnaissance, camouflage, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations, marksmanship, medical aid, chemical defence, field logistics, and coordinated tactical operations. In particular, the UAV exercises involved six practical combat scenarios in mountainous terrain, enhancing reconnaissance, strike, and rescue capabilities while improving coordination between the two forces. Cultural and sports exchanges within the program, including basketball, table tennis, chess, calligraphy, traditional medicine, and artistic performances, also helped strengthen mutual understanding and trust.

Earlier, on July 7, China Daily reported that a four-day exchange program, held under the theme “Youth Uniting for the Future”, was jointly organised by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Guizhou Provincial Committee and China Daily, bringing together Chinese and Vietnamese youth delegates, along with Vietnamese experts.

The event was part of broader efforts to implement agreements reached by the top leaders of China and Vietnam. In April, President Xi Jinping proposed inviting Vietnamese youths to China for “Red Study Tours” over the next three years to strengthen bilateral ties.

Continue reading Vietnam and China to celebrate key anniversaries

Communist Party of China joins Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa

The Communist Party of China (CPC) joined the Liberation Movements Summit that was hosted by the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa in Johannesburg, between July 25-28, under the theme, ‘Defending the Liberation Gains, Advancing Integrated Socio-Economic Development, Strengthening Solidarity for a Better Africa.’

Besides the ANC, the core participants were the five other main liberation movements in the region – the Popular Liberation Movement of Angola (MPLA), the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) of Namibia, the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Revolutionary Party of Tanzania – CCM).

In a statement, the ANC said: “This critical gathering reaffirms the ideological foundations of the six Southern African liberation movements… and their historical role in securing independence, dignity and development across the region. It also seeks to reassert the relevance of these movements in a rapidly shifting global order.

“Southern Africa’s liberation movements transformed the region’s political landscape, resisting colonial rule and apartheid, and ushering in people-centred governance. Since independence, these movements have implemented landmark policies on land reform, education, housing, infrastructure and social protection.

“However, these gains now face erosion due to renewed imperial pressures, economic crises, and attempts at neo-colonial interference. The Summit provides a united platform to confront these threats and consolidate progressive regional responses grounded in Pan-Africanism, internationalism and multilateralism.

“The Summit is a strategic intervention in organisational renewal, deepening intra-party solidarity, and realignment of liberation movements with the socio-economic aspirations of a new generation. The ANC believes that the political, economic and cultural survival of Southern Africa’s liberation legacy demands honest introspection, shared learning and actionable unity.

“The Summit will advance frameworks for inter-party collaboration, regional integration, youth engagement, and sovereign resource governance. Through reaffirming shared values and strengthening alliances, the 2025 Liberation Movements Summit will chart a path forward, one that protects the gains of the past while building a just, inclusive and self-determined African future.”

Further details of the conference perspectives may be read here.

Besides these six movements, the POLISARIO Front of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and the Palestinian National Liberation Movement Fatah were also represented at a senior level, along with the South African Communist Party (SACP), Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) of Azania, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and the South African National Civics Organisation (SANCO).

The Communist Party of China was represented by Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Party Central Committee (IDCPC).

Among other parties represented were United Russia, the Communist Party of Cuba, the National Liberation Front (FLN) of Algeria, the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) of Nicaragua, the Botswana National Front (BNF – the main component of the progressive ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition), and the Botswana Democratic Party, while messages of greetings included that from the Communist Party of the Russian Federation.

In his keynote address, Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the ANC and of the Republic of South Africa, said:

Continue reading Communist Party of China joins Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa

China demands end to US blockade of Cuba, expands scientific collaboration

In the following article for Workers World, Andrew Johnson highlights the deepening solidarity between China and Cuba, rooted in the two countries’ shared socialist project and their opposition to imperialism. The article highlights China’s increasingly assertive international stance, enabled by decades of rapid state-led economic development, which has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty and positioned China as an economic and technological powerhouse.

China has become Cuba’s largest trading partner and a vital ally as Cuba continues to endure the harsh effects of the decades-long US blockade, which has intensified since the Soviet Union’s collapse. The blockade, described by China’s Foreign Ministry as a “profound disaster” and a violation of international law, prevents Cuba from trading freely and punishes third-party countries for engaging economically with the island.

Demonstrating practical solidarity, China has donated solar panels to bolster Cuba’s energy grid and continues to expand scientific collaboration. A major development is the establishment of a joint biotech lab between the Cuban Center for Immunoassay and China’s Beijing Institute of Technology, focused on research into viruses like Covid-19 and influenza. In February 2025, the first Sino-Cuban biopharmaceutical company opened in Changzi, China, dedicated to producing advanced antibody medicines.

The article frames these moves as part of a broader resurgence of socialist internationalism, with Cuba joining BRICS as a partner state in 2023. The collaboration between the two nations poses a challenge to waning US hegemony and a step toward building a more multipolar world.

Andrew concludes:

China and Cuba both boast a history of scientific achievements, particularly in the biomedical field. Increased scientific cooperation between the two countries is proving to be a powerful basis for the two socialist countries to bilaterally strengthen their solidarity.

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has a long history of supporting the global working class. This has recently included vital support for and cooperative projects with socialist Cuba that aid both countries’ people. 

Continue reading China demands end to US blockade of Cuba, expands scientific collaboration

Vietnam to honour China and other traditional friends on 80th national day

Vietnam’s National Defence Ministry has invited the military of five countries – Russia China, Laos, Cambodia, and Belarus – to join the parade in the ceremony marking the 80th August Revolution Day and the 80th National Day, to be held on September 2 in the capital Hanoi.

The ministry has also sent invitations to defence ministers of eight countries – Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, Cuba, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan – to attend the ceremony, according to Deputy Minister, Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien.

The Vietnam News Service reported on July 10 that the invitation of military units to participate in the parade is a gesture of friendship, solidarity and the close bonds between the people and army of Vietnam and their traditional allies and further noted that on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30 2025), the defence ministries of China, Laos and Cambodia sent military personnel to take part in the parade held in Ho Chi Minh City. This was the first time for Vietnam to invite foreign troops to participate in a national military parade.

Also on July 10, the defence ministry held a meeting with relevant bodies to expedite the construction of a monument dedicated to the soldiers from foreign countries who supported Vietnam during its resistance wars, to be located at the Vietnam Military History Museum.

The memorial complex will include a general symbol commemorating the support and sacrifices of foreign military experts, made of bronze and designed by Vietnam, as well as separate monuments honouring military experts from the Soviet Union/Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia and Cuba, also made of bronze, that will be either designed and constructed by the respective countries or by Vietnam upon request, and a greenstone relief designed and built by Vietnam.

The following article was originally published in Vietnam News.

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam’s National Defence Ministry has invited the military of five countries – Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, and Belarus – to join the parade in the ceremony marking the 80th August Revolution Day and National Day on September 2 in Hà Nội.

The ministry has also sent invitations to defence ministers of eight countries of Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, Cuba, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan to attend the ceremony, according to Deputy Minister, Senior Lieutenant General Hoàng Xuân Chiến.

So far, Cuba has responded to the invitation, confirming that the Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba will attend the ceremony.

Laos and Cambodia have also expressed their support for the initiative to send military forces to participate in the parade at the celebration, as per Việt Nam’s invitation.

The invitation of military units to participate in the parade is a gesture of friendship, solidarity and close bonds between the people and army of Việt Nam and its traditional allies.

The move also reaffirms Việt Nam’s foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralism — being a reliable partner and friend to all nations.

Previously, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 2025), the defence ministries of China, Laos and Cambodia sent military personnel to take part in Việt Nam’s military parade.

On the same day, the defence ministry held a meeting with agencies and units to implement the construction of a monument dedicated to the soldiers from foreign countries who supported Việt Nam during its resistance wars, to be located at the Việt Nam Military History Museum.

This commemorative project carries great significance, paying tribute to foreign military experts and soldiers who assisted Việt Nam in its wars of national liberation.

The memorial complex will include a general symbol commemorating the support and sacrifices of foreign military experts, made of bronze and designed by Việt Nam; separate monuments honouring military experts from the Soviet Union/Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia and Cuba, also made of bronze that will be either designed and constructed by the respective countries or by Việt Nam upon request; and a greenstone relief designed and built by Việt Nam.

The area surrounding the monument will be landscaped with trees and grass lawns.

Chiến has instructed that construction progress be expedited. The first group of statues must be completed before August 15, while the entrance and central exhibition area should be finished by August 10.

Liberation movement ties recalled and carried forward

China’s diplomatic missions in South Africa and Tanzania have recently highlighted the historical legacy and continued relevance of the bonds of solidarity forged during the struggle for national liberation.

On 17 June, Pan Qingjiang, China’s Consul General in Johannesburg, published an article entitled “Driving Education Culture, Fostering Youth Friendship Between China and South Africa” in various major South African media outlets.

According to an article published by the South African Government News Agency: “In South Africa, Youth Month is celebrated every June following a declaration by our first democratic President, Tata Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. It is a time when we collectively honour the pivotal role that young people played in the struggle against Apartheid and the historic Soweto Uprising of 1976. Every 16 June, as we mark National Youth Day, we not only remember the sacrifices and courage of those young people, but we also renew our commitment to equipping today’s youth for a vibrant future.”

Pan writes: “On the occasion of South Africa’s Youth Month, I wish to extend my sincere festive greetings to all our young friends. The youth are the future of nations and the future of China-South Africa friendship as well… Our nations, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, enjoy traditional friendship characterised by a strong ‘comradeship plus brotherhood’ bond…. The shared history and common future between China and South Africa are the solid foundation and driving force for the friendship among our youths.

“In June last year, the Consulate General of China in Johannesburg organised a themed short video competition for secondary school learners, encouraging the youth to reflect on both South Africa’s 1976 Soweto Uprising and China’s May Fourth Movement. More than one hundred participants from over twenty schools in Gauteng and the Free State submitted their creative entries in a variety of creative forms, including drama, speech, song, and dance, which vividly portrayed the heroic struggles of both countries against colonial oppression.

“Together, we paid tribute to, learned, and gained strength from the shared legacy of Chinese and South African youth in their pursuit of freedom, justice, and progress.”

The 1976 Soweto Uprising, led by the township youth, spread like a prairie fire across South Africa. Its brutal repression led thousands of young people to leave home and join the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC) and the other liberation movements waging armed struggle against the apartheid regime. It is considered a key turning point in the fight for a free South Africa.

China’s May Fourth Movement, a student-led anti-imperialist uprising, was sparked by the capitulation of the Chinese government to the humiliating terms imposed by the imperialist powers meeting at the 1919 Versailles peace conference. Together with the influence of the October Revolution in Russia, it played a major role in preparing for the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) two years later. Key founders of the CPC, Li Dazhao and Chen Duxiu were central leaders of the May Fourth Movement.

After detailing a number of current educational and cultural exchanges between South Africa and China, Pan’s article concludes:

“Like the rising sun, the youth brings brilliant prospects. China and South Africa are bound together by shared history, common developmental tasks and strategic interests. The youth serves as the vanguard in building a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future and advancing our all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era.”

Earlier, on May 28, China’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian visited the African Liberation Movement Freedom Fighters Kongwa Camp, together with officials from the Tanzanian government and the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Revolutionary Party of Tanzania).

The two sides reflected on China’s contributions to Tanzania’s independence and the national liberation of southern Africa, and agreed to strengthen historical sites protection and inheritance, and to promote inter-party and sub-national cooperation between the two countries.

District Council Chairman White Zuberi, who witnessed the national liberation movement, showed Ambassador Chen around the camp and, together with her, recalled the glorious history of mutual support between China and Africa. The camp was built in 1964 and both Mozambique’s founding President Samora Machel and Namibia’s founding President Sam Nujoma were trained there.

The following articles were originally published on the websites of the Chinese Consulate General in Johannesburg and the Chinese Embassy in Tanzania. They are reproduced here from that of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Chinese Consul General in Johannesburg Pan Qingjiang Publishes Signed Article Titled Driving Education Culture, Fostering Youth Friendship Between China and South Africa

June 17 (MFA) — On 17 June, Consul General Pan Qingjiang published a signed article entitled “Driving Education Culture,Fostering Youth Friendship Between China and South Africa” in the mainstream media of South Africa, including the Star, the Mercury, the Cape Times and the IOL website. Full text below:

On the occasion of South Africa’s Youth Month, I wish to extend my sincere festive greetings to all our young friends. The youth are the future of nations and the future of China-South Africa friendship as well. I have been deeply impressed by the confidence, optimism, and ingenuity of the young South African people.

Our nations, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, enjoy traditional friendship characterized by a strong “comradeship plus brotherhood” bond.

Continue reading Liberation movement ties recalled and carried forward

Witnessing China’s socialist transformation

In the following report for Workers World, Ché Marino reflects on the recent delegation to China, organised by Friends of Socialist China and hosted by the China NGO Network for International Exchanges. Travelling through Shaanxi, Gansu, and Shanghai, the delegation explored China’s development, cultural heritage, and political system.

Ché contrasts the remarkable improvements in living standards and development level in China since his first visit in 2009 – from Shanghai’s modern infrastructure to expansive public amenities and smart technologies. Indeed, China’s development “stands in stark contrast to the crumbling infrastructure and growing inequality I see in New York City”.

Ché emphasises that these changes stem not from a capitalist approach but from China’s socialist model, where policies are shaped by the Communist Party to serve the public good. He cites the lifting of 800 million people from poverty, leadership in renewable energy, and peaceful diplomacy as evidence of socialism’s success. Detailed discussions with scholars such as Professor Zhang Weiwei reinforced the idea that Chinese socialism has global relevance, offering an alternative to imperialism and neoliberalism.

The article also highlights China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Global Civilisation Initiative as examples of international cooperation rooted in mutual benefit and respect, especially in China’s relations with Africa. Ché notes the Western media’s distortions about China, contrasting them with what he witnessed firsthand: a people-centred society focused on ecological sustainability and global solidarity.

Ché concludes that China’s socialist path offers vital lessons for the global left, particularly for youth disillusioned by Western capitalism.

In a world facing multiple crises, from climate change to growing inequality, China’s socialist path illuminates a way forward — not as a template to be mechanically copied but as a source of inspiration for all who seek a more just, peaceful and sustainable world.

In May 2025, I had the privilege of joining a delegation organized by Friends of Socialist China, a collective dedicated to fostering international solidarity and understanding of China’s socialist model. Our journey, hosted by the China NGO Network for International Exchanges (CNIE), took us across several regions, including Shaanxi, Gansu and Shanghai. 

The purpose of our trip was to engage in dialogues on civilizational exchange, witness China’s remarkable socio-economic transformations and deepen our understanding of the principles underpinning its development. Through visits to historic revolutionary sites, discussions with local leaders and participation in cultural events, we aimed to explore the realities of Chinese socialism and its implications for global solidarity.

As I stepped off the plane in Shanghai in 2025, memories of my first visit in 2009 came flooding back. Sixteen years ago, I arrived as a college student seeking the cheapest study abroad option available. What I found then was unmistakably a developing nation: streets that flooded when it rained, large swaths of underdeveloped public infrastructure and transportation that consisted of hitching rides on motorcycles to reach the nearest train station.

The transformation I witnessed upon my return is nothing short of remarkable. Where once stood only the Oriental Pearl Tower on the Bund now rises a skyline of architectural marvels. The face-scanning technology that allows commuters to enter subway stations with just a glance would have seemed like science fiction during my first visit, when my university ID was merely a laminated photo. 

This dramatic metamorphosis represents more than just economic growth; it embodies the success of China’s socialist project with Chinese characteristics. As I traveled through residential areas of Shanghai, I was struck by the quality of life afforded to ordinary citizens: beautiful parks, running tracks with specialized materials that protect joints and extensive bicycle paths. “We don’t have this in New York City,” I found myself repeatedly saying.

Continue reading Witnessing China’s socialist transformation

Algerian veterans recall Chinese support to liberation struggle

The Xinhua News Agency recently carried interviews with two veterans of the Algerian liberation struggle regarding the support and training they received from China.

The article states: “In the heat of the Algerian War of Independence in the 1950s, when colonial repression was at its peak and international support was scarce, a distant nation opened its arms to a group of determined young Algerians, training them as soldiers in their quest for national independence. And that nation was the newly founded People’s Republic of China.”

It notes that, after officially recognizing the Provisional Government of the Algerian Republic in September 1958, China hosted 27 Algerian trainees for comprehensive aviation training between 1959 and 1961. More than six decades later, the memories of this experience, which exemplify the long-standing friendship between China and Algeria, remain vivid in the hearts of the veterans.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Boudaoud Lounes and Colonel Drid Ahmed Lakhdar, two of the Algerian airmen who trained in China, shared their story of sacrifice, solidarity, and a bond that has endured across generations.

Lounes, a former bomber pilot, was among the very first Algerian airmen trained in China during the height of the War of Independence. “We first received basic training in Syria, at the Aleppo military school,” Lounes recalled. “But for our specialization, only one country answered our call: China.” Arriving in China: “We saw immediately the parallels between the Chinese people’s struggles and those of our own people. What touched us most wasn’t just the military knowledge. It was the way they believed in us. We were treated with respect, as equals. In China, we felt like brothers.”

Lakhdar joined the second batch of Algerian air trainees sent to China in 1959. He said: “The Chinese know what it means to be colonized. Their commitment came from their own experience.”

His words echo those of the African-American scholar and revolutionary Dr. WEB Du Bois, speaking in Beijing in 1959 on his 91st birthday:

“China is flesh of your flesh, and blood of your blood. China is colored and knows to what a colored skin in this modern world subjects its owner. But China knows more, much more than this: she knows what to do about it.”

More than 60 years later, Lakhdar recalls when the time came to leave China:

“When we completed our training and went to thank the Chinese Defense Ministry, they told us, ‘no, we must thank you. You opened a front in Africa and freed us from encirclement.’ I will never forget that moment, as it showed how our struggle was part of something bigger. The sense of duty, humility, and collective spirit I learned in China stayed with me for life. I tried to pass it on to younger generations.”

Continue reading Algerian veterans recall Chinese support to liberation struggle

China and Africa issue powerful declaration on Global South solidarity and cooperation

The China-Africa Changsha Declaration – signed between the People’s Republic of China, 53 African countries and the African Union Commission on 11 June at the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Changsha, Hunan – affirmed that:

  • All countries of the Global South should work together to safeguard multilateralism, promote multipolarity and oppose unilateralism and bullying.
  • The US’s tariffs, unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying are severely damaging to Africa and must be opposed.
  • China will expand its zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China (that is, all African countries except for Eswatini).
  • China will continue actively contributing to Africa’s modernisation, including in green energy, AI, science and technology.
  • All countries should work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, promote Belt and Road cooperation, and implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative.

The declaration is a strong reaffirmation of the principles of solidarity, cooperation and mutual benefit that underpin China’s relations with Africa, and a powerful statement against the US’s attempts to divide the Global South.

It highlights the fact that, while the US is putting up tariff barriers, China is tearing them down; that while the US has slashed development aid, China is steadily increasing its support for African development. It clearly puts forward China’s strong support for Africa’s modernisation and sustainable development.

We are pleased to republish the full text of the statement below. The text was first published in English on the website of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We will be publishing further material on this important development in due course.

We, the representatives of the People’s Republic of China, 53 African countries and the African Union Commission, guided by the consensus reached by our leaders during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), gathered in Changsha to advance the full implementation of the Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era.

I. We agree that the rise and growth of the Global South represents the trend of the times and the future of development. China and Africa are both important members of and staunch forces in the Global South. We call on all countries, especially countries in the Global South, to work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. We commend the initiative of jointly building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era for its positive significance in safeguarding solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and defending multilateralism.

Continue reading China and Africa issue powerful declaration on Global South solidarity and cooperation

An unexpected friendly encounter: Ambassador Wang Yajun pays tribute to veteran artists from the DPRK

The following article, which was originally published on the website of the Chinese Embassy in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), relates how Ambassador Wang Yajun and his staff members visited the fine arts exhibition in the capital Pyongyang held in honour of April 15’s 113th birth anniversary of the DPRK’s founding leader Kim Il Sung.

To his surprise, he met there with two old artists in their 90s from the Korean People’s Army. They fought side by side with the Chinese People’s Volunteers more than 70 years ago and have a special bond with the Chinese people.

92-year-old Korean People’s Artist Li Lushan said that he had participated in many major battles, such as blocking the US Army’s Incheon Landing. In 1951, he was seriously injured, and it was the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army that sent him to Changchun, Jilin for treatment. During that time, the Chinese people selflessly donated blood for him and took great care of him. It was China and the Chinese people who gave him a second life.

Cui Shigen, a 90-year-old painter from the Songhua Academy of Fine Arts in the DPRK, said that the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army soldiers had visited his home and encouraged him by patting his shoulders when they heard that he was going to join the army. Later, he fought with the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army on the Eastern Front and participated in post-war reconstruction. At a celebration party, he also created portraits of Chairman Kim Il Sung and Chairman Mao Zedong, which were highly praised by the army leaders and soldiers.

The article noted that the two artists are not only household names in the DPRK. Their work is also very popular in China.

Ambassador Wang paid tribute to the two veteran artists for their contributions to national independence, development and China-DPRK friendship, wished them good health and longevity, and said that through their works, he felt the great love of the Korean people for their national leaders. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea. “I believe that under the leadership of the Workers’ Party of Korea headed by General Secretary Kim Jong Un, the Korean people will surely achieve greater success in the journey of creating a new era of national comprehensive rejuvenation. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Volunteers’ participation in the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. I believe that under the strategic guidance of General Secretary Xi Jinping and General Secretary Kim Jog Un, the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK, which was forged with blood, will surely be inherited and developed, and will continue to move to a higher level, benefiting the people of the two countries.”

The article was published in Chinese and has been machine translated.

In early spring of April, the “Exhibition of Fine Arts by Veteran Artists in Memory of the 113th Anniversary of the Birth of Chairman Kim Il Sung” was grandly held at the Pyongyang International Cultural Center. On the 20th, Ambassador Wang Yajun of the Chinese Embassy in North Korea and his delegation visited the exhibition.

In the exhibition hall, oil paintings such as “Mangyongdae Residence” and “Spring in Mt. Paektu” vividly show Chairman Kim Il Sung’s revolutionary career and glorious achievements in his dedication to the independence and prosperity of North Korea and the happiness of the people. Korean paintings such as “Golden Autumn” and “In a Greenhouse Benefiting the People’s Livelihood” reflect from multiple angles the fruitful results achieved by General Secretary Kim Jong Un in leading the North Korean people to create a new era of national comprehensive rejuvenation. In addition, there are many exquisite works that vividly present the unique and beautiful natural scenery of North Korea.

What Ambassador Wang and his delegation did not expect was that there were many famous old North Korean artists participating in the exhibition. Among them, two old painters in their 90s were from the People’s Army. They fought side by side with the Chinese People’s Volunteers more than 70 years ago and have a special bond with the Chinese people.

92-year-old Korean People’s Artist Li Lushan said that he had participated in many major battles, such as blocking the US Army’s Incheon Landing. In 1951, he was seriously injured and it was the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army that sent him to Changchun, Jilin for treatment. During that time, the Chinese people selflessly donated blood for him and took great care of him. It was China and the Chinese people who gave him a second life.

Cui Shigen, a 90-year-old painter from the Songhua Academy of Fine Arts in North Korea, said that the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army soldiers had visited his home and encouraged him by patting his shoulders when they heard that he was going to join the army. Later, he fought with the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army on the Eastern Front and participated in post-war reconstruction. At a celebration party, he also created portraits of Chairman Kim Il-sung and Chairman Mao Zedong, which were highly praised by the army leaders and soldiers. When he was moved, Cui Shigen sang the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army Song in Chinese with Ambassador Wang and his entourage. The sincere and friendly atmosphere deeply touched everyone at the scene.

Today, the two old artists are not only household names in North Korea, but their Korean paintings and oil paintings are also very popular in China.

Ambassador Wang paid tribute to the two veteran artists for their contributions to national independence, development and China-DPRK friendship, wished them good health and longevity, and said that through the affectionate works, he felt the great love of the Korean people for their national leaders. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea. I believe that under the leadership of the Workers’ Party of Korea headed by General Secretary Kim Jong-un, the Korean people will surely achieve greater success in the journey of creating a new era of national comprehensive rejuvenation. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Volunteers’ participation in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea. I believe that under the strategic guidance of General Secretary Xi Jinping and General Secretary Kim Jong-un, the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK, which was forged with blood, will surely be inherited and developed, and will continue to move to a higher level, benefiting the people of the two countries and making greater contributions to maintaining regional peace.

CPC representative: China and Sri Lanka have worked shoulder to shoulder, showing the world how our countries can thrive together

Tens of thousands of people gathered in the iconic Galle Face area of Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo this May Day in a massive show of support for the new government of the National People’s Power (NPP) grouping, whose core is the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP – People’s Liberation Front), the country’s largest Marxist party.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and other party leaders were joined by representatives of the Communist Party of China, the Communist Party of India and the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

Addressing the rally, Peng Xiubin, Bureau Director General of the Communist Party of China’s International Department (IDCPC) said: “Six decades ago, your hands built the JVP. Over the years, you have kept fighting, making the JVP stronger and stronger, forming the National People’s Power. Eventually, last September, you won the presidential election, a new milestone in the history of Sri Lanka.

“Sri Lanka is China’s good neighbour, trusted brother, reliable partner. For 68 years of our diplomatic ties, we have worked hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, showing the world how our countries can thrive together. Now, with the JVP leading Sri Lanka, new opportunities arise for China-Sri Lanka ties.”

JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva said he hoped cooperation with China would help address rural poverty. “China has done tremendous work in this area and we want to get their expertise.”

State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) Binoy Viswam said that at last year’s May Day rally, Dissanayake predicted that “the next year when we celebrate the May Day, it will be a victorious May Day for the people and the workers of the Sri Lankan country. That day has come.”

AR Sindhu, Central Committee member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM) said: “We proudly tell the people that, yes, Kerala [where the CPIM leads the state government] will follow the Sri Lankan way. Not only Kerala, the entire India will be following the Sri Lankan way.”

A short clip of the rally may be seen here.

Other political parties in Sri Lanka also held May Day rallies, including the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), Communist Party of Sri Lanka and Frontline Socialist Party.

Following May Day, President Dissanayake paid a state visit to Vietnam, May 4-6.

The following articles were first published by the Press Trust of India (PTI) and Singapore’s Channel NewsAsia (CNA).

Communist parties of India, China represented at Lanka’s ruling dispensation’s May Day rally

The Communist Party of India and the Communist Party of China were both represented at the May Day rally held here by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s NPP on Thursday.

This is the first May Day celebration by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the mother party in the National People’s Power (NPP) broader front, after it came to power.

The party, founded in 1965, had led two rebellions to topple governments through armed revolution in the early 70s and late 80s.

Binoy Viswam of the Communist Party of India (CPI) pointed out how at last year’s May Day rally, Dissanayake predicted that “the next year when we celebrate the May Day, it will be a victorious May Day for the people and the workers of the Sri Lankan country. That day has come”.

Viswam said there were claims in the past that there is no alternative to capitalist system and that there is only one way, and that way is the way of the Americans, the way of the spoilers, the way of the capitalists.

Continue reading CPC representative: China and Sri Lanka have worked shoulder to shoulder, showing the world how our countries can thrive together

China helps Cuba fight blackouts, strengthen power grid

Cuba may slowly ease its crippling blackouts and strengthen its electricity grid as it begins building seven solar parks with the first batch of equipment from China.

The Chinese aid will help Cuba’s plan to build 92 solar installations by 2028, adding about 2,000 megawatts to the island’s power grid and help reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. Once completed, the project will significantly boost Cuba’s strained power system, which currently has a capacity of 7,264 MW.

According to Maribel Aponte-Garcia, an economist and professor at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, the solar parks will also contribute to Cuba’s logistical and financial sovereignty by strengthening the country’s logistics capacity in the Greater Caribbean. For example, the Port of Mariel has the potential to be connected into logistics corridors in the China-Russia-Latin America axis, which can help avoid United States-controlled transit points such as the Panama Canal.

“Cuba is much more than an island with an energy crisis. It’s a critical logistics node in the Greater Caribbean, with direct access to maritime routes that connect the Atlantic with the Gulf of Mexico, Central America and South America.”

China, a major global exporter of solar panels, has emerged as a “comrade and brother” to Cuba, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the island’s energy transition, said Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez, a professor at Cuba’s Centre of Research for International Policy.

“Chinese cooperation in installing solar parks is extremely strategic, particularly in the energy sector,” he noted. In 2018, Cuba formally joined the Belt and Road Initiative, and three years later it joined the Belt and Road Energy Partnership, which aims to boost multinational energy cooperation.

The following article was originally published by China Daily.

Cuba may slowly ease its crippling blackouts and strengthen the electricity grid as it begins building seven solar parks with the first batch of equipment from China.

The Chinese aid helps Cuba’s plan to build 92 solar installations by 2028, adding about 2,000 megawatts to the island’s power grid and help reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. Once completed, the project would significantly boost Cuba’s strained power system, which currently has a capacity of 7,264 MW.

Installation work is set to begin soon in Artemisa, about 50 kilometers west of Havana, where the equipment arrived late last month. Additional solar parks are planned for the provinces of Pinar del Rio, Las Tunas, Holguin, Granma and Guantanamo. More materials from China are expected in the coming months.

“Chinese investment in solar energy in Cuba is a joint commitment to energy sovereignty, South-South cooperation, and the multipolar reconfiguration of global trade and logistics,” said Maribel Aponte-Garcia, an economist and professor at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus.

The solar parks will also contribute to Cuba’s logistical and financial sovereignty by strengthening the country’s logistics capacity in the Greater Caribbean, she said.

For example, the Port of Mariel has the potential to be connected into logistics corridors in the China-Russia-Latin America axis, which can help avoid United States-controlled transit points such as the Panama Canal.

“Cuba is much more than an island with an energy crisis,” Aponte-Garcia said. “It’s a critical logistics node in the Greater Caribbean, with direct access to maritime routes that connect the Atlantic with the Gulf of Mexico, Central America and South America.”

Over time, the solar park could become a key component of an emerging South-South architecture, in which renewable energy powers technological platforms, ports and autonomous corridors, she added.

China, a major global exporter of solar panels, has emerged as a “comrade and brother” to Cuba, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the island’s energy transition, said Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez, a professor at Cuba’s Center of Research for International Policy.

Last year, China exported enough solar panels globally to generate 235.93 gigawatts of power, up 13 percent year-on-year, according to US renewables research firm InfoLink Consulting.

Gonzalez emphasized the significance of Chinese cooperation in advancing Cuba’s renewable energy sector.

“Chinese cooperation in installing solar parks is extremely strategic, particularly in the energy sector,” he said, adding the effects are not only political and economic but also show how it can improve the quality of life for Cubans.

Aponte-Garcia said China has long been an active partner of Cuba in terms of trade and investment, with participation in projects such as the Mariel Special Development Zone and the energy sector.

In 2018, Cuba formally joined the Belt and Road Initiative, and three years later it joined the Belt and Road Energy Partnership, which aims to boost multinational energy cooperation.

Beijing and Havana have signed several construction and energy deals aimed at supporting cooperation between China and Latin America.

Beyond energy coordination, China also continues to invest in projects linked to the production of medicines, biotechnology and agriculture, Gonzalez said.

Cuba joined the BRICS+ grouping as a partner state, which could drive integration with the bloc. BRICS+ is an intergovernmental organization that includes Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa, along with a growing number of countries such as the United Arab Emirates.

Further, an increased presence of Chinese investments in Cuba is expected, though the US blockade against Cuba “can make some economic-financial operations and processes difficult”, Gonzalez said.

Webinar marks 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference

Seventy years ago, the Bandung Conference brought together 29 Asian and African countries to discuss the common challenges facing the Third World. The conference was a milestone in the global struggle against colonialism and imperialism, and laid the foundations for the Non-Aligned Movement.

Friends of Socialist China and the International Manifesto Group co-organised a webinar on Sunday 27 April 2025 to address the legacy of Bandung and its relevance to the contemporary world. Speakers at the event were:

  • Radhika Desai (Convenor, International Manifesto Group)
  • Ben Norton (Founder and editor, Geopolitical Economy Report)
  • Tings Chak (Asia Coordinator, Tricontinental Institute)
  • Jenny Clegg (Author, China’s Global Strategy: Towards a Multipolar World)
  • Isaac Saney (Cuba and Black studies specialist, Dalhousie University)
  • Keith Bennett (Co-editor, Friends of Socialist China)
  • Mushahid Hussain (Pakistani senator, Chairman of the China-Pakistan Institute)

The presentations were followed by a lively and interesting discussion. The video of the webinar is embedded below.

Chinese medical teams have been working in Mozambique for nearly 50 years

Two events on April 14 served to underline the continuing close bonds between China and the countries of southern Africa, forged during the liberation struggle against imperialism, colonialism and white racist minority rule.

Reporting from the capital Maputo, the Xinhua News Agency wrote that the 25th contingent of the Chinese medical team in Mozambique organised a large-scale free clinic at Matola Provincial Hospital, as part of a series of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Mozambique.

The event offered consultations in gynecology, obstetrics, cardiology, urology, pain management, general surgery, orthopedics, spinal surgery, and acupuncture. Medical stations were also set up for blood pressure, glucose, and oxygen saturation checks, as well as for the distribution of basic medicines.

Luisa Panguene, national director of medical assistance at the Ministry of Health, expressed gratitude to the Chinese medical team for promoting health, well-being, and hope for Mozambican citizens.

“On behalf of the Mozambican people, I would like to thank the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese medical mission for their continued support and for the solidarity they have shown throughout these 50 years of brotherhood.”

Ma Litai, leader of the Chinese medical team, said: “We have come here with Chinese expertise, equipment, and medicine to serve the people of Mozambique. Chinese medical teams have been working in Mozambique for nearly 50 years, and we will continue to serve the health needs of the Mozambican people.”

Friendship between China and Mozambique dates to the beginning of the armed liberation struggle against Portuguese colonialism, launched by the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) on 25 September 1964, which China, along with the other socialist countries, consistently supported morally and materially. This struggle culminated in the founding of the People’s Republic of Mozambique (now the Republic of Mozambique) on 25 June 1975, with the outstanding Marxist Samora Machel becoming the country’s first President. With a revolutionary friendship already forged in battle, China and Mozambique established diplomatic relations the same day.

Also on April 14, China and Zimbabwe signed two agreements for airport infrastructure maintenance and skills development training in the transport sector in the capital Harare.

At the signing ceremony, Zimbabwean Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Joshua Sacco said: “The signing of the two agreements is a continuation of the long-standing relationship between our two nations dating back to the days of the liberation struggle and it now shows that we are moving on to a stage where we share economic development.”

Ma Xin, Vice Governor of China’s Jiangsu Province, who was leading a provincial delegation, said that with Zimbabwe transitioning towards an industrialised economy, there is heavy demand for infrastructure building and construction, and engineering and construction companies from Jiangsu are more than willing to participate in Zimbabwe’s infrastructure construction development.

Continue reading Chinese medical teams have been working in Mozambique for nearly 50 years

On Qingming Festival, China honours its internationalist heroes

The Chinese people celebrated the traditional Qingming Festival this year on April 5. A day to remember and honour ancestors, its origins date back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). However, it became an official festival during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) when Emperor Xuanzong decreed that people should formally honour their ancestors during this period. One of the most important customs of the Qingming Festival is tomb sweeping. Families visit cemeteries to clean the graves of their ancestors, remove weeds, and offer food, tea, wine, and incense as a sign of respect.

Particularly poignant this year were those ceremonies performed in foreign lands where Chinese fighters and workers laid down their lives while fulfilling their internationalist duties.

On March 30, Chinese Ambassador to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Wang Yajun led all staff members and other members of the local Chinese community to pay tribute to the Yang Gensi Martyrs Monument in Chongjin County.

The Chinese Embassy’s website noted that, “The heroic deeds of the martyr Yang Gensi, who detonated the explosive pack and died together with the enemy in the battle of Xiaogaoling in Xiajieyu Village, Chongjin Lake, and was the first special meritorious service and special combat hero of New China, a Hero of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, [and holder of] the First Class National Flag Medal and the Gold Star Medal, are well known to everyone.”

It reported that the DPRK monument administrator introduced the history, repair and management of the Yang Gensi Martyrs Monument to Ambassador Wang and his delegation and said that the deeds of Martyr Yang Gensi are well known in his country. The DPRK people will always remember the great sacrifices and great achievements made by the Chinese People’s Volunteers and will come here to pay tribute and mourn on every important anniversary.

Ambassador Wang thanked the DPRK Party and Government for their long-term meticulous maintenance and management of the memorial facilities for the Chinese People’s Volunteers in Korea and said that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Volunteers’ participation in the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. 75 years ago, the Chinese People’s Volunteers, represented by Yang Gensi, composed of outstanding Chinese sons and daughters, crossed the Yalu River, and withstood the severe cold, the difficulties of transport lines being cut off by enemy planes, insufficient supplies, and lack of heavy weapons. They, together with the DPRK soldiers and civilians, won the victory of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea with their flesh and blood. Today, we comfort the spirits of the martyrs of the Volunteer Army with the brilliant achievements made in the construction of New China and the fruitful results of the sustained development of China-DPRK relations. In the new era and new situation, we must inherit and carry forward the great spirit of resisting US aggression and aiding Korea, eliminate all interference, unswervingly deepen the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK cemented with blood, work together to advance the socialist cause of the two countries, and create a happier and better life for the people of the two countries.

Recent Chinese feature films have vividly recorded much of this history.

In an article published by China Military on October 16, 2020 (marking the 70th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army entering Korea), the newspaper of China’s Ministry of National Defence noted:

“Yang Gensi, the Special-Class Combat Hero of the Chinese People’s Volunteers (CPV), was born in 1922 in Taixing, Jiangsu Province. Joining the New Fourth Army in 1944, Yang used to serve as commander of the squad, platoon and company and had the reputation of ‘Master of explosives’.

“Yang Gensi and his platoon, in the heroic spirit of guarding the position regardless of life or death, repelled eight waves of US offensives. Seeing that more than 40 American soldiers had climbed up to the hilltop when only he and two injured soldiers were still holding the position, Yang grabbed the last blasting charge, pulled the fuse and plunged into the enemies, dying a heroic death along with them.

Continue reading On Qingming Festival, China honours its internationalist heroes

An improving China-India relationship serves the common interests of both countries and the region

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), India’s largest communist party, opened its 24th Congress on April 2, 2025, in the historic Tamil Nadu city of Madurai.

The party’s English language weekly newspaper People’s Democracy carried the text of the messages of greetings from the ruling communist parties in the socialist countries of China, Cuba, Vietnam, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Laos. The party’s website also carried the congratulatory messages received from more than 30 fraternal parties throughout the world.

In its greetings, the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) said that: “As an important Left force in India with a century-long history, the CPI(M) has long been committed to advancing economic and social progress of India.  We believe that the Congress will serve as an opportunity for the CPI(M) to achieve new development and make contributions to promoting regional prosperity and progress.

“An improving China-India relationship serves the common interests of both countries and the region. The CPC and the CPI(M) have long maintained friendly exchanges, which has played a significant role for facilitating mutual understanding and practical cooperation between our two sides. Under the new circumstances, the CPC stands ready to strengthen exchanges and strategic communication as well as experience sharing of party and state governance with the CPI(M) and other Indian political parties.”

The opening session of the Congress was also addressed by the leaders of the Communist Party of India, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, the All-India Forward Bloc and the Revolutionary Socialist Party.

MK Stalin, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party addressed a special seminar at the Congress.  Earlier, he had announced the installation of a statue of Karl Marx in the state capital Chennai, in a show of solidarity with the Left. “Half of the DMK flag is red! You are part of us,” he said. “The bond between the Dravidian movement and the communist movement is an ideological friendship. I have come to this conference as a symbol of that bond.”

Stalin recalled how his father and former chief minister M. Karunanidhi identified himself as a communist:

“The relationship between the Dravidian and communist movements began, when Thanthai Periyar translated the Communist Manifesto into Tamil and published it… I, named Stalin, announced in the assembly that a statue of world-renowned genius Karl Marx will be erected in Chennai.”

The following article was originally published in People’s Democracy.

Messages of greetings from fraternal parties

COMMUNIST PARTY OF CHINA (CPC)

18 March 2025, Beijing

Dear Comrades,

Delighted to learn that the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) will convene its 24th Party Congress, the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) wishes to extend our warmest congratulations to you and wishes the Congress a complete success.

As an important Left force in India with a century-long history, the CPI(M) has long been committed to advancing economic and social progress of India.  We believe that the Congress will serve as an opportunity for the CPI(M) to achieve new development and make contributions to promoting regional prosperity and progress.

The international landscape and world order are now in a new round of transformation.  An improving China-India relationship serves the common interests of both countries and the region. The CPC and the CPI(M) have long maintained friendly exchanges, which has played a significant role for facilitating mutual understanding and practical cooperation between our two sides. Under the new circumstances, the CPC stands ready to strengthen exchanges and strategic communication as well as experience sharing of party and state governance with the CPI(M) and other Indian political parties, so as to promote  continued progress of China-India relations as well as peace and stability of the region. 

International Department

Central Committee

Communist Party of China

Message of Greeting from Communist Party of Cuba

Havana, March 31, 2025

ON behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) on the occasion of its 24th Congress.

We wish you success at this important Party event and are convinced that the elected leadership will continue the legacy of our beloved Comrade Sitaram Yechury, a dear friend of the Cuban Revolution and staunch defender of just causes.

The Communist Party of Cuba appreciates the ongoing support that the CPI(M) has provided to the struggle against the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States government and against the inclusion of our country on the unilateral list of states that allegedly sponsor terrorism.

At the same time, we reaffirm our firm commitment to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between both Party organisations.

Please accept my highest consideration and esteem.

Emilio Lozada García

Head of the International Relations Department

COMMUNIST PARTY OF VIET NAM (CPV)

Dear comrades,

On the occasion of the 24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) convening from April 2 to 6, 2025, the Communist Party of Viet Nam would like to convey warmest congratulations. 

Over the past years, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has always championed for strengthening the solidarity of the Left movement, making many important contributions to the struggle to protect the people’s livelihood, democracy and legitimate rights of the working people and minority communities.

We believe that the important resolutions adopted at the 24th  Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) would envision concrete directions and goals to help enhance your Party’s position and influence in the Indian politics, and make positive and significant contributions to the cause of building a peaceful, unified, democratic and prosperous India. 

May the 24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) be a resounding success.

May the traditional friendship and excellent cooperation between our two Parties, the peoples of Viet Nam and India as well as between the State of Kerala and provinces of Viet Nam be further consolidated and flourish.

With best regards,

The Central Committee

The Communist Party of Viet Nam

WORKERS’ PARTY OF KOREA (DPRK)

Pyongyang, April 2, 2025

24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)

Madurai.

The Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea extends its hearty congratulations to the 24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and through the Congress, also sends its warm and comradely greetings to the entire members of your Party.

We believe the 24th Congress of your Party will be an important occasion setting the new milestone in strengthening the Party’s organisational base and mass foundation.

Expressing our conviction that the long-standing friendship and cooperation between our two Parties would further develop in the future, we sincerely wish your Party Congress great success.

Central Committee Workers’ Party of Korea

LAO PEOPLE’S REVOLUTIONARY PARTY

12 March 2025

Dear Comrades,

On the occasion of the 24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), on behalf of Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, party members and Lao people, we would like to express our warm congratulations and best wishes to the delegates of Congress and through the delegates to party members and the entire Indian people. 

The Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) will be held amidst the regional and international situation continuing to be more chaotic and complicated.  This Congress is an important political event for the Communist Party of India (Marxist), to usher its unstoppable growth.  We are confident that the resolution of the Congress and various important documents adopted by the Congress will give a direction for the Party in the coming years to contribute to the mission of building and developing India and bringing prosperity to the Indian people as well as to continuously raising the role and influence of the party in the political arena in India.

May the 24th Congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) gloriously succeed.

May the friendly relations between the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) be further enhanced for the benefit of Lao and Indian peoples as well as for the mission of building peace, friendship and cooperation for development in the region and the world at large.

Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee

Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, passes away

A pioneer and hero of the Lao revolution, Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR) and former Chairman of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP), passed away in the capital Vientiane on April 2, at the age of 101.

In a message sent the same day to his Lao counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith, Chinese President Xi Jinping was reported by the Xinhua News Agency as extending profound condolences and sincere sympathies, hailing Comrade Khamtay as a steadfast communist, outstanding leader of the older generation of the Lao party and state, and close comrade and friend of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese people, who will always cherish his memory.

Noting that China and Laos are socialist neighbours linked by the same mountains and rivers, Xi said the two countries are not only good neighbours, but also good friends, good comrades and good partners.

His message was also reported by the KPL Lao News Agency.

The newspaper Laotian Times reported that Khamtay was born into a poor family in 1924. He plunged into the movement for national liberation against French colonial rule in the immediate aftermath of World War II and became a founder member of the LPRP in 1955.

Laos has declared a period of national mourning until April 7.

On April 3, the leaders of the LPRP gathered to pay their respects to the late President. General Secretary and State President Thongloun Sisoulith stated: “Comrade General Khamtay was a courageous and outstanding revolutionary and national leader who dedicated his life to the cause of national liberation, protection, and development, contributing to the prosperity of the Lao nation… His name will remain eternally intertwined with the revolutionary cause of our Party.”

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam visited Laos to express condolences. Meeting with Thongloun Sisoulith, he stressed that the loss of Comrade Khamtay is not only a great sorrow for Laos but also for Vietnam, as he was a cherished comrade and close friend who stood side by side with Vietnam in their shared struggles. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to further strengthening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

Sonexay Siphandone, the son of Khamtay, who currently serves as the Prime Minister of Laos, expressed sincere gratitude to Lam and the Vietnamese delegation, noting that they were the first to come to Laos to offer condolences to the Lao Party and State, and the late leader’s family. This gesture, he noted, reflects the deep bond and affection for their beloved father, a great leader of the Lao party, state, and people.

To Lam described Khamtay as an eminent figure of the first generation of Lao revolutionaries, who played a pivotal role in building the Lao revolution, leading the national democratic revolution, and safeguarding and developing the country. He was also a pioneer in implementing the LPRP’s comprehensive renewal policy, and a loyal, close and steadfast friend of Vietnam who stood shoulder to shoulder with the Vietnamese people through their struggles for national protection and nation building. His passing is a great loss to the party, state, and people of both Laos and Vietnam.

To honour Khamtay’s contributions, Lam announced that the Vietnamese party and state have decided to observe two days of national mourning.

Lam and the Lao leaders reflected on Khamtay’s illustrious revolutionary career, which began with his involvement in the Indochinese Communist Party. They underscored his close ties to the Vietnamese revolution and his strong relationships with Vietnam’s senior revolutionary leaders, describing these as vivid manifestations of the rare unbreakable and loyal relationship between the parties, states, and revolutionary causes of both nations.

The Lao leaders affirmed that future generations of Lao leaders will continue to work alongside their Vietnamese counterparts to nurture the special friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Laos, built and nurtured by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane, President Souphanouvong, and other leaders of both countries.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency, the KPL Lao News Agency, Nhân Dân and the Laotian Times.

Xi extends condolences over passing of Laos’ former president

BEIJING, April 3 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday sent a message to Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, extending his deep condolences over the passing of Khamtay Siphandone, former president of Laos and former chairman of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP).

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, extended profound condolences to the LPRP, the Lao government and people over the passing of Khamtay Siphandone, and expressed sincere sympathies to his family on behalf of the CPC, the Chinese government and people, and in his own name.

Continue reading Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, passes away

Daniel Ortega: The continuing Chinese Revolution brings peace, wellbeing and solidarity

We are pleased to republish this article from the Tortilla con Sal website, consisting of the speeches given on March 8, International Women’s Day, at the latest ceremony to mark the handover of buses as part of the comradely support of the People’s Republic of China to the Sandinista revolution in Nicaragua.

Speaking first, Santi Zhou, representative of the Yutong Company, the bus manufacturer, said:

“Since the start of our collaboration, we have introduced several batches of buses, with a total of 2,000 units in Nicaragua. Yutong accompanies Nicaraguans in their development.

“We thank Compañero Comandante Daniel Ortega and Compañera Rosario Murillo for the opportunity to contribute to the modernisation of Nicaraguan public transport, which is now not only present in Managua… but also expanding to other territories.

“It gives us pride to strengthen the bonds of friendship between our peoples, expanding new horizons for the growth of transport and the important tourism industry, promoting access to the beautiful landscapes of Bluefields and Bilwi… Our team is committed, living and working here, to provide the greatest possible support to the Nicaraguan people.”

Fátima del Carmen German, a transport worker, said: “On this special day, March 8th when we celebrate this important date, we commemorate the struggle that women waged for equal rights; and likewise, we celebrate the strength, resilience and passion of every woman… On behalf of all these strong, brave, hardworking and empowered women, we reiterate our gratitude to our good government and our brothers and sisters in China for having confidence in us.”

China’s Ambassador to Nicaragua Chen Xi noted that this was the fifth time that he has participated in the handover of Chinese vehicles to Nicaragua.

“I wanted to salute the Nicaraguan people for the recent publication of the Constitution of the Republic of Nicaragua, unanimously approved by the Legislators of the National Assembly of Nicaragua. A revolutionary and democratic constitution, a constitution that strengthens and further consolidates the rights of education, health, security, wellbeing and all the rights that assist the honourable Nicaraguan people.

“I also want to salute Co-President Daniel Ortega, Co-President Rosario Murillo, for their great responsibility and commitment, their determination to lead the Nicaraguan people to a brighter future.

“Of course, I also cannot fail to salute you, the Nicaraguan transport workers, for the successes you have been able to achieve, to improve the means of transport, supported by the Sandinista government led by your Co-Presidents, so that you can, with all your goodwill, with all your professionalism, improve the transport service to the Nicaraguan people, so that the Nicaraguan people can enjoy better bus services, which have been a very important means of transport for the country and the people, to achieve a better development.

Noting that due to its special geographical and climatic situation, Nicaragua is particularly susceptible to national disasters and the effects of climate change, the Ambassador said that:

“But really human beings now do not have to face this with just their bare hands, we can now resort to technology, and China is an immense country but also vulnerable to natural disasters, we too face typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and so on but thanks to the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese government, and the efforts of the Chinese people, of the technicians, we have been able to develop some experiences, some very efficient, advanced technologies, to face all those emergency situations.

“And we have wanted to share those experiences, those Chinese technologies, with the Nicaraguan people, so that we can fight together against all those emergency situations, all those natural disasters; so that our peoples can enjoy life in tranquility, in security, more and more every day… And to sum up, China is willing to work together with our Nicaraguan brothers and sisters to develop many other projects, especially projects dedicated to the social sector, so that the Nicaraguan people can enjoy the benefits of our friendship, of our brother and sisterhood.”

Co-President Daniel Ortega began his speech by noting that March 8 was International Women’s Day. Noting its history, he said it was, “Clara Zetkin, who in 1910 at a Conference of Socialist Women, in Copenhagen, proposed and approved the celebration of Working Women’s Day, because it was mainly working women who were marginalised and exploited. And very soon, the following year, in the month of March, the first commemoration took place.

He went on to say that this is a “struggle that we have been waging here in Nicaragua as well, to defeat and eliminate, to extirpate, from our nation, the manifestations of machismo, which in some cases result in causing pain, even tragedy in some families.

“And there, fighting for the peace and security of the Nicaraguan people, the right of women was incorporated, and has also been enshrined in the laws, that when aggression and crimes are committed against working women, Self-sacrificing Women, then the maximum penalty goes to those who commit this type of crimes.”

Ortega pointed out that the ceremony was taking place at the Comandante Hugo Rafael Chávez Frías Roundabout and highlighted the role that the late Venezuelan revolutionary leader had played in the resumption of diplomatic relations between Nicaragua and China:

“A few days ago, on March 5th, we commemorated the 12th Anniversary of his Departure on the Journey to Immortality, but he is present here with us and we remember him well for how he connected with the Nicaraguan people.

“And I remember, dear Ambassador, that on the occasions when I would talk with Comandante Hugo Chávez, he would say to me: Well, and when…? The brothers of the People’s Republic of China are waiting for us. And he loved the People’s Republic of China, like the love we have too have for China.

“But, unfortunately, when the neoliberal governments arrived, they broke our relations with the People’s Republic of China, and three neoliberal Governments passed. And we had to return to the government and achieve a majority in Congress, in the National Assembly, to finally make Comandante Chávez’s dream come true.

“And we can tell you: Here we are, united as brothers and sisters, with the People’s Republic of China, with the Chinese people, with the Chinese Communist Party, and we are proud of that unity, which is a unity in which, we well know, the heroic people of China made an extraordinary revolution led by Mao Zedong, one to which President Xi Jinping has come giving it continuity and new brilliance.

“That is, the revolution in China has not stopped, the revolution in China continues, and now offers itself to the world as a revolution bringing peace, bringing wellbeing, bringing solidarity to the peoples. It does not carry sanctions, nor does it carry threats, nor does it carry wars. It is a revolution of peace, the revolution led by the Chinese Communist Party.”

The final speaker was Co-President Rosario Murillo, who said:

“While Comandante Daniel was talking about that plague, the plague of machismo, which is still something in our culture that we have to combat and overcome, I was remembering how we always thought and said that without revolution it is difficult to achieve women’s rights. And 45 years after the triumph of the revolution, 45 years later, what do we see? That it has been possible to achieve justice for us women, from us as women, because we have a revolution, a revolution in which we all participate with our strength, with our work, with our pride, with our sense of national dignity…

“For years immemorial, the years of the guerrilla Sandinista struggles, women have been there… But now women are in power! At that time, women were combatants, guerrillas, fighters, warriors, and we have always been warriors, fighters and combatants, but now we also constitute power, institutional power.”

Address by Compañero Santi Zhou
Representative for Central America from the Yutong Company

Dear Co-President-Comandante Daniel Ortega; dear Co-President, Comrade Rosario Murillo; dear Ambassador Chen Xi, of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.

Dear Gentlemen, Compañero Laureano Ortega; Vice Minister Mauricio Aguilar; Compañero Fidel Moreno; Compañeras Fátima and Idalia and your compañeras and compañeros.

Compañeras and compañeros, cordial greetings. A very good afternoon to everyone, and a happy Women’s Day to all the Compañeras present today.

It is a pleasure and an honor for me to be present here. On behalf of Yutong, I want to express to you our pleasure at being able to continue as part of the growth and development of public transport in Nicaragua by supporting its People.

We have been part of this vision of the Government since 2023 and we are grateful to have been chosen for this important development. Yutong is a partner in this challenge and proof of this is our interest and commitment to accompany you throughout the process.

Since the start of our collaboration, we have introduced several batches of buses, with a total of 2,000 units in Nicaragua. Yutong accompanies Nicaraguans in their development.

We thank Compañero Comandante Daniel Ortega and Compañera Rosario Murillo for the opportunity to contribute to the modernization of Nicaraguan public transport, which is now not only present in Managua, Ciudad Sandino and Tipitapa, but will also expanding to other territories, such as Chinandega, Carazo, Masaya, León, Matagalpa, Estelí, Jinotega, Boaco (…)

In addition, it gives us pride to strengthen the bonds of friendship between our Peoples, expanding new horizons for the growth of transport and the important tourism industry, promoting access to the beautiful landscapes of Bluefields and Bilwi.

We are working and moving forward together to offer new Yutong products in the future. Our Team is committed, living and working here, to provide the greatest possible support to the Nicaraguan People, and guarantee accompaniment throughout the life cycle of our products.

Finally, I sincerely hope that the quality of life of the Nicaraguan people continues to improve every day.

Thank you very much, everyone.

Continue reading Daniel Ortega: The continuing Chinese Revolution brings peace, wellbeing and solidarity

CPC congratulates Brazil’s Workers’ Party on its 45th founding anniversary

The Communist Party of China (CPC) has sent a warm message of greetings to the Workers’ Party (PT) of Brazil on the occasion of its 45th founding anniversary.

The message notes that since the PT returned to power in 2023, Brazil’s economy has grown steadily, with rising comprehensive national strength and international influence and status. Alluding to the PT’s stance of promoting national development, poverty alleviation and the interests of working people, its commitment to BRICS and the Global South, and its socialist orientation, the message says that the CPC and the PT share similar ideals, adding that they have understood, trusted and supported each other for a long time, and forged a deep friendship.

The following article was originally published on the website of the CPC International Department (IDCPC).

Recently, the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC) sent a congratulatory letter to the National Executive Committee of the Workers’ Party (PT) of Brazil on the Party’s 45th anniversary. 

The IDCPC expressed in the letter that since the founding of the PT 45 years ago, it has played an active role in promoting Brazil’s economic and social development, advancing regional integration in Latin America, and upholding international fairness and justice. Since President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and the PT came to power again in 2023, they have been committed to reform and proactive in making progress. As a result, Brazil’s economy has grown steadily, with rising comprehensive national strength and international influence and status.

Sharing similar ideals, the CPC and the PT both regard pursuing happiness for the people and national development as the mission. The two Parties have understood, trusted and supported each other for a long time, and forged a deep friendship. In the new era, the CPC is willing to deepen the traditional friendship with the PT, consolidate friendly cooperation, strengthen experience exchanges and mutual learning of party building and state governance, promote the construction of each Party and the development and revitalization of each country, and constantly enrich the significance and strategic connotation of China-Brazil community with a shared future, so as to better benefit the two countries and peoples.

China open to good ties with Czech Republic provided core interests respected

Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), met on February 17 with a delegation led by Kateřina Konečná, Chairwoman of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia and Member of the European Parliament.

Liu said the Czech Republic was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. The Chinese side attaches importance to China-Czech relations and maintains a stable policy towards the Czech Republic. It is willing to, together with the Czech side, adhere to win-win cooperation, respect each other’s core interests, transcend ideological differences, and push the relationship between the two countries back to a healthy and stable development track at an early date.

The background to this remark is that in recent years, China-Czech relations, which had been very friendly, have significantly deteriorated, with the pro-western government and some other leading politicians adopting hostile and provocative positions on such core issues for China as Taiwan and Xizang (Tibet).

Liu went on to say that the CPC regards the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia as a comrade and friend, appreciates its long-term support for the development of Czech-China and Europe-China relations, and is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields with the party.

Konečná said, at present, Czech-China relations are facing some difficulties, but this is not the mainstream of the relationship between the two countries. The friendship between the Czech and the Chinese people remains unchanged. The Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia cherishes its friendly relations with the CPC and is willing to strengthen bilateral exchanges and promote the improvement and development of relations between the two countries.

Two days previously, on February 15, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, held a meeting with his Czech counterpart Jan Lipavsky on the sidelines of the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany.

Wang said that China is willing to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation with the Czech Republic provided that the Czech side respects China’s core interests. The Czech Republic was among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China and the two peoples have maintained good feelings toward each other. Bilateral relations, however, have experienced a downturn in recent years, a situation that China does not wish to see.

He expressed the hope that the Czech side would engage in earnest self-reflection, develop the right perspective about China, and take concrete actions to rebuild trust with China. The key is to respect China’s core interests, particularly adherence to the one-China principle, and to safeguard the political foundation of China-Czech relations, so as to bring bilateral ties back to a healthy and stable track as soon as possible. Only on this basis would China be willing to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields with the Czech side.

Lipavsky acknowledged that, in the context of looming trade wars, maintaining dialogue and cooperation between the Czech Republic and China, as well as between the EU and China, is of great importance. The Czech government, he insisted, pursues a one-China policy and does not support “Taiwan independence.” The Czech Republic is willing to work with China to develop sound political relations and advance bilateral cooperation for better results.

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

Liu Jianchao Meets with a Delegation of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia

Feb. 19 (IDCPC) — Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with a delegation led by Kateřina Konečná, Chairwoman of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia and Member of the European Parliament. 

Continue reading China open to good ties with Czech Republic provided core interests respected