January 6th (AMSP/CGTN) – – China-Africa ties have advanced over the past 70 years, especially since the founding of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in the year 2000.
2024 was a key milestone, with stronger trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, paving the way for shared growth.
The 2024 Forum for China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing welcomed nearly 6,000 delegates, including leaders from 53 African countries, the African Union Commission Chairperson, and the UN Secretary-General. It was a grand celebration of China-Africa friendship.
The Summit signaled an elevation in bilateral ties to a strategic level, cementing an all-weather partnership for the new era.
“Looking at the future, I propose that China’s bilateral relations with all African countries be raised to the level of strategic relations and that the overall positioning of China-Africa relations be elevated to the level of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era!,” said Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The Summit showcased ambitious modernization goals, unveiling 10 partnerships and fostering initiatives in trade, infrastructure, and technology.
Projects such as railways, roads, and “small but beautiful” programs are transforming lives on the continent.
The Niger Third Bridge Project aided by China boosted local incomes by creating over 3,800 jobs and generating 200 million yuan or more than 27 million US dollars in economic benefits.
In Côte d’Ivoire, Chinese support transformed the Gagnoa Development Zone into a leading rice production base, highlighting successful agricultural cooperation.
Economic ties are thriving. In 2023, trade reached 282 billion dollars, with direct investment exceeding 40 billion dollars.
By mid-2024, trade had grown by another 5.5%. Starting in December, China extended zero-tariff treatment to 33 African nations.
China’s contributions to Africa extend to health care and education, with over 130 hospitals built or upgraded and 17 Luban Workshops in vocational training established.
Poverty alleviation programs have benefited more than 10 million Africans.
The adoption of the Beijing Declaration during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit has strengthened unity among Global South nations by promoting mutual development and opposing hegemonism.
China-Africa relations continue to flourish, paving the way for a shared future of progress.
amsp/cgtn-abp
CGTN