China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi Reaffirms Africa as a Strategic Ally, Set to Visit Nigeria
In a reaffirmation of China’s enduring ties with Africa, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Namibia on Monday, highlighting the “time-honoured friendship” between the two regions.
During a press conference in Windhoek alongside Namibian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Wang Yi described Africa as China’s “most reliable partner.”
This visit is part of the minister’s African tour, which also includes stops in Nigeria, Congo-Brazzaville, and Chad.
It aligns with China’s long-standing diplomatic tradition of commencing each year with a high-level visit to Africa, a practice sustained for 35 years.
Speaking in Windhoek, Wang Yi emphasised the significance of this tradition, calling it “a fine tradition and a distinctive feature of China’s diplomacy.”
He noted, “For 35 years straight without any change or waver, we have prioritised Africa in our foreign engagements. This demonstrates the depth of our partnership and our shared commitment to mutual growth.”
Wang Yi praised the historical solidarity between China and Africa, referencing their collective struggles for national independence and their ongoing cooperation for mutual development.
“We cherish the time-honoured friendship between China and Africa, be it the extraordinary time fighting for national independence or as we pursue mutually beneficial cooperation in the process of common development,” he remarked.
The minister expressed hope that China’s continued prioritisation of Africa would send a clear message to the world.
“We hope that through upholding the tradition of visiting Africa first in a new year, we can show the world that whatever happens, China will always be the most reliable partner of African countries,” he stated.
After concluding his engagements in Namibia, Wang Yi is scheduled to proceed to Congo-Brazzaville, Chad, and Nigeria.
His visits are expected to focus on reinforcing economic partnerships, bolstering infrastructural development, and deepening political and cultural ties.
China has long been a major player in Africa, investing heavily in infrastructure, mining, and trade, and remains committed to strengthening this partnership.
Wang Yi’s visit underscores Beijing’s intent to maintain its leadership in fostering strong South-South cooperation, even as the global political and economic environment grows increasingly complex.
This diplomatic tour signals China’s sustained determination to remain a steadfast partner in the continent’s growth trajectory.
Source: The Guardian
