China and Africa deepened their long-standing friendship on Monday as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosted a high-level meeting in Beijing with more than 50 African diplomats to mark Africa Day.
The event, which brought together ambassadors and chargé d’affaires from across the continent along with representatives from the African Union, highlighted the growing strategic relationship between China and Africa.
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The meeting served not only as a celebration of Africa’s unity and progress, but also as a reaffirmation of China’s commitment to supporting the continent’s development and global influence.
Wang, who also holds a senior position within China’s Communist Party leadership, emphasized that China-Africa relations have reached a historic peak.
Over the past decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made multiple visits to Africa, introducing principles that have shaped a new era of cooperation—grounded in sincerity, mutual benefit, and a shared vision for the future.
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During last year’s Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing, China laid out key proposals aimed at jointly pushing forward modernization efforts. These included targeted actions to deepen development partnerships and drive collaborative progress under initiatives such as the Belt and Road and the Global Development Initiative.
As preparations begin for an upcoming ministerial meeting to follow up on FOCAC outcomes, China aims to build on this momentum.
The focus will be on implementing high-impact projects, advancing shared development goals, and showcasing the benefits of a balanced, inclusive global economy.
Wang also underscored the importance of unity in a world facing increasing geopolitical tensions. He stressed that China and Africa must stand together in opposing domination by major powers, promoting fair international rules, and defending open trade and investment practices.
The African diplomats, for their part, expressed strong confidence in the partnership. They signaled their readiness to continue supporting China’s core interests, including its national unity and sovereignty.
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Many praised China’s initiatives as a source of motivation for the continent’s own development journey and expressed determination to uphold international fairness and cooperation through a united Global South.