In a significant move to strengthen ties between China and Africa, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined a comprehensive plan to enhance cooperation during a press briefing following his meeting with Denis Sassou Nguesso, president of the Republic of the Congo, this Tuesday.
As co-chairs of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Wang emphasized the commitment to advancing the ten partnership action plans aimed at modernizing China-Africa relations. These plans align with the six key aspects of modernization proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit, which include justice, equity, openness, win-win cooperation, people-centric approaches, diversity, inclusivity, eco-friendliness, peace, and security.
Wang highlighted specific initiatives such as the elimination of tariffs on products from all least developed countries that have diplomatic relations with China, which includes 33 African nations. Additionally, the plan includes building a comprehensive land-sea connectivity network, implementing 1,000 small-scale livelihood projects, and enhancing trade and investment cooperation mechanisms.
Looking ahead, Wang unveiled a three-year roadmap for FOCAC, featuring a ministerial meeting this year to coordinate the Beijing Summit's outcomes, celebrations of the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic relations in 2026, and preparations for the 10th Ministerial Conference in 2027 to ensure the successful realization of the summit's goals.
Climate cooperation remains a cornerstone of the partnership, with China committing to over 1.5 gigawatts of photovoltaic power projects in Africa. The collaboration aims to support Africa's transition to a low-carbon development path through clean energy projects and a green development partnership.
Wang also called for greater fairness in global climate governance, urging developed countries to fulfill their obligations by providing funding, technology, and capacity-building support to African nations. This approach aims to create a sustainable and equitable framework for future growth and development.
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Wang Yi calls for enhancing FOCAC for China-Africa cooperation
cgtn.com
