Addis Ababa, 13 January 2023 (TDI): Foreign Minister of China, Qin Gang on Wednesday held the 8th China-African Union (AU) Strategic Dialogue with Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat at the AU headquarters.
Foreign Minister Qin said that Africa has always been a diplomatic priority for China. Carrying forward and advancing the China-Africa friendship has been a noble tradition and a defining feature of China’s diplomacy.
He made a four-point proposal on growing China-Africa relations. “First, let us intensify our in-person interactions and connectivity of ideas. Second, let us further deepen the friendly relations between China and the AU.
Third, let us do more to upgrade and elevate China-Africa cooperation. Fourth, let us stand firm in defending the unity and cooperation of developing countries”.
Statements made by Chairperson
Chairman Faki said that China has stood with Africa both in its struggle for national independence and liberation.
Also, China has supported Africa in its efforts to accelerate development and revitalization and play a greater part in international affairs.
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He said that Africa values China’s strong support for African integration, connectivity, and the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
It also looks forward to working with China to jointly advance the building of a China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.
During the visit to Africa, Foreign Minister Qin also refuted the misguided accusation that China created “debt traps” for Africa. He said that China has been committed to helping Africa ease the debt pressure.
Full of confidence in the prospects of China-Africa relations, the two sides stressed that they will step up high-level exchanges, align their development strategies more closely and focus on practical cooperation.
Following the talks, the two sides signed cooperation documents, including the economic and technical agreement on the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
