In a stirring call at the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Changsha, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged fresh success stories in China-Africa cooperation to deepen ties and unlock self-reliant development across the African continent.
"Success stories like those of Gambian farmer and entrepreneur Musa Darboe illustrate the real impact of our partnership," Wang Yi said in a reception celebrating a quarter-century of FOCAC. "Our goal is to bring hope, improve livelihoods, and deliver tangible benefits for people in Africa."
Darboe, whose rice yields soared thanks to hybrid rice technology pioneered by Chinese scientist Yuan Longping, shared how this innovation helped his hometown bid farewell to hunger. He even brought samples of his harvest from the Gambia to pay tribute to Yuan\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000aknown as the "father of hybrid rice" in China.
With support from Chinese agricultural experts on the ground, Darboe has transformed his farm into a model of modern agritech success. "I'm eager to learn more about Chinese agricultural techniques and drive deeper cooperation between our regions," he said.
Beijing sees partnerships that improve food security and boost local economies as the heart of its relationship with African nations. By focusing on shared interests and sustainable growth, Wang Yi emphasized that Beijing will continue investing in projects that benefit ordinary Africans and foster long-term prosperity.
Yuan Longping, who passed away in 2021 at age 91, left a lasting legacy in his home province of Hunan and beyond. His groundbreaking work in rice breeding continues to inspire a new generation of farmers and changemakers across borders.
As China-Africa ties evolve, the next wave of success stories\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000afrom renewable energy to digital infrastructure\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000a\u000aconsolidate a future of global cooperation and sustainable development.
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Wang Yi calls for more success stories in China-Africa cooperation
cgtn.com
