In a significant development, the Chinese premier Xi Jinping and Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye announced the elevation of China-Burundi relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where President Ndayishimiye attended the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Premier Xi highlighted the enduring nature of China-Burundi ties, describing their relationship as a model of mutual respect and development cooperation. He emphasized that both nations have stood as true partners, supporting each other through various challenges.
Xi further stated that advancing these bilateral ties benefits both countries and serves as an example of solidarity for the Global South. He indicated that the summit has set a new course for China-Africa relations, boosting modernization efforts and marking a new milestone in their cooperation.
Expressing optimism, Xi urged both nations to capitalize on this opportunity to enhance their partnership by implementing the summit's outcomes. He reaffirmed China’s support for Burundi in resisting external interference and pursuing an independent development path.
The Chinese premier committed to continuing mutual support on core national interests and deepening collaboration in areas such as rural revitalization, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development. He also stressed the importance of cultural exchanges to strengthen their longstanding friendship.
President Ndayishimiye expressed his gratitude for his previous visit to China for the 31st FISU World University Games in Chengdu and welcomed the opportunity to return. He congratulated China on successfully hosting the 2024 FOCAC Beijing summit and expressed full support for Xi’s “10 partnership action plans with Africa to advance modernization.”
Ndayishimiye praised China's initiatives, including building a community with a shared future for mankind, and highlighted that Burundi-China relations are founded on shared values and ideals. He reaffirmed Burundi’s commitment to industrialization and agricultural modernization, leveraging China’s support and cooperation.
The summit concluded with the signing of several bilateral cooperation agreements between China and Burundi, covering the Belt and Road Initiative, economic partnerships, agricultural cooperation, and the export of Burundian coffee beans to China.
Reference(s):
Chinese, Burundian presidents announce elevation of bilateral ties
cgtn.com
