China has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to Africa, pledging deeper cooperation and expanded economic opportunities as relations between both sides continue to grow.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, said the friendship between China and Africa has endured for decades and remains resilient despite shifts in the global landscape.
According to him, China-Africa relations have continued to flourish for over 70 years, strengthened by shared interests, mutual respect and a long tradition of diplomatic engagement.
Wang noted that for 36 consecutive years, China’s foreign ministers have begun their annual diplomatic engagements with visits to African countries, describing the practice as a symbol of the importance China places on its relationship with the continent.
Reflecting on historical ties, the minister recalled the visits of former Chinese premier Zhou Enlai to Africa and the role China played in building the TAZARA Railway, a landmark infrastructure project linking Tanzania and Zambia. He said the sacrifices made by Chinese engineers and workers during the railway’s construction remain a lasting symbol of the deep bond between China and Africa.
Wang emphasized that the relationship has been strengthened further under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has consistently highlighted sincerity, mutual benefit, and goodwill as guiding principles for cooperation with African nations.
He disclosed that within the first two months of 2026 alone, President Xi had sent three messages to Africa, including a congratulatory letter marking the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, a response to veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, and a message to the summit of the African Union for the 14th consecutive year.
“These messages demonstrate China’s commitment to ensuring that the torch of China-Africa friendship continues to be passed down through generations,” Wang said, adding that Africa can count on China’s continued support for its development and revitalization.
Looking ahead, the Chinese foreign minister highlighted several initiatives expected to shape China-Africa relations in 2026.
He said China will take new steps toward building what he described as a China-Africa community with a shared future, including hosting several African leaders to strengthen mutual cooperation.
Another major development will be the introduction of zero-tariff treatment for all African imports into China starting from May 1, a move aimed at expanding trade and creating more opportunities for African products in the Chinese market.
Wang said the policy forms part of China’s broader commitment to high-standard economic opening and is expected to boost trade and deliver greater benefits to people on both sides.
In addition, he announced that nearly 600 events will be organized under the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, designed to deepen cultural ties and promote mutual understanding between Chinese and African citizens.
He added that China remains committed to working closely with African countries to draw inspiration from their rich civilizations and further strengthen people-to-people bonds.
According to Wang, the goal is to ensure that the long-standing friendship between China and Africa continues to grow and benefit future generations.
