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More than 60 experts from China and Africa came together in Shanghai on Friday for an important round-table discussion focused on strengthening partnerships to support modernization efforts. This meeting, co-hosted by the China Economic and Social Council and the Union of Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions of Africa, aimed to build on agreements made during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The Beijing Summit was a landmark event that elevated the relationship between China and Africa to a strategic, comprehensive partnership, laying a foundation for shared development.
The Beijing Summit introduced 10 key partnership initiatives designed to advance modernization and deepen collaboration between China and Africa. These initiatives include efforts to boost economic development, enhance technological innovation, and support infrastructure projects. By taking the lead in fostering progress within the Global South, China and Africa hope to create a model of mutual development and shared success.
The Shanghai meeting provided a platform for experts from both regions to assess these initiatives, exchange ideas, and plan practical steps to ensure their effective implementation. The goal was to translate the broad commitments of the Beijing Summit into concrete actions that would have a meaningful impact on communities in both regions.
Wang Dongfeng, chairman of the China Economic and Social Council, opened the meeting with a speech emphasizing the importance of unity and shared ambition. “China and Africa have a long history of friendship and cooperation,” Wang said. “Modernization is a common goal that both Chinese and African people are striving to achieve.”
Wang also highlighted the role of the China Economic and Social Council, which was established in 2001 as a think tank under the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The council focuses on fostering exchanges with African counterparts to promote practical collaboration in areas such as trade, technology, education, and infrastructure. These efforts, he explained, are central to the shared goal of modernization.
Alfred Tainga Poloko, president of the Economic, Social and Environmental Council of Central Africa, echoed Wang’s sentiments. He stressed that modernization requires international collaboration, innovation, and supportive policy frameworks. Poloko praised China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), describing it as a transformative force for infrastructure development and economic growth in Africa.
“Through the Belt and Road Initiative, we have seen significant progress in transportation networks, energy projects, and trade routes,” Poloko said. “These developments are strengthening the economic resilience of many African nations.”
However, Poloko also emphasized the importance of African countries taking ownership of their development. While international partnerships are crucial, he argued that African nations must design and implement their own national strategies to achieve sustainable growth. “Modernization must be a balance between external support and internal initiatives,” he said.
A key theme of the discussions was the role of technology in driving development. Poloko highlighted the potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools to close development gaps in education, healthcare, and industry. He urged both regions to prioritize innovation and adaptability, noting that institutions such as economic and social councils can play a vital role in fostering technological progress.
Experts from both regions agreed that the fourth industrial revolution, characterized by rapid advancements in digital and industrial technologies, presents a unique opportunity for China and Africa. By adopting these technologies, both regions could bypass some of the traditional barriers to development and become global leaders in innovation and sustainable growth.
Key Discussion Points
Throughout the meeting, participants exchanged insights on several critical topics, including:
- Global Equity and Justice: Experts stressed the importance of creating a fair global system where all nations have equal opportunities to develop and thrive.
- Development Opportunities: Discussions focused on how both regions could capitalize on new economic and technological opportunities to drive mutual progress.
- Inclusive Growth: Participants emphasized the need to ensure that modernization efforts benefit everyone, especially vulnerable communities, rather than deepening existing inequalities.
- Knowledge Sharing: The importance of cultural and educational exchanges was highlighted as a way to foster deeper understanding and cooperation between China and Africa.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint declaration outlining specific commitments for the future. This declaration reaffirmed the dedication of both regions to work together toward modernization and sustainable development. Key areas of focus included:
- Strengthening trade relationships.
- Facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technology.
- Promoting educational and cultural exchanges.
- Supporting industrial and technological advancements.
The declaration also emphasized the importance of inclusive growth, ensuring that development benefits are shared broadly across societies.
The Shanghai meeting highlighted the enduring partnership between China and Africa. Despite differences in their challenges and opportunities, both regions are united by a common vision for modernization and mutual growth. By building on their shared history of cooperation, they aim to tackle global challenges and set an example of effective collaboration.
This gathering underscored the belief that modernization is not a zero-sum game but a collective effort that can lift all participants. It also demonstrated that strategic partnerships, built on trust and mutual respect, have the power to drive global progress.
The discussions in Shanghai reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and collaboration in achieving modernization. By turning the resolutions of the Beijing Summit into actionable plans, China and Africa are taking meaningful steps toward creating a modern, equitable, and prosperous future.
As the participants concluded the meeting, there was a clear sense of shared purpose. Both regions recognize that achieving modernization requires ongoing effort, innovative thinking, and a commitment to leaving no one behind. The joint declaration adopted in Shanghai will serve as a roadmap for the years ahead, guiding both regions as they work toward their ambitious goals.
