Themed around communication, mutual learning, people-to-people exchanges, and win-win cooperation, the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Economic, Trade and Cultural Cooperation commenced on Friday in Jinhua City, located in east China’s Zhejiang Province.
This significant event brought together more than 400 distinguished guests from 40 different countries and regions, all with the shared objective of fostering and promoting the longstanding friendship and cooperative spirit between China and Africa. The aim was to contribute meaningfully to the development of an all-weather China-Africa community built on shared goals and mutual prosperity, paving the way for a promising new era.
“The 2024 Forum on China-Africa Economic, Trade and Cultural Cooperation kicks off in Jinhua, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Nov. 8, 2024.” This pivotal forum reflects the deep-rooted connections between the two regions and their commitment to advancing ties in various sectors, reinforcing a future anchored in collaboration and shared development. The choice of Jinhua as the host city highlights its prominent role in fostering China-Africa relations, underscored by years of extensive cooperation spanning economic, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Qin Boyong, vice chairperson of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, addressed the forum through a video message. Qin underscored the vital role that Zhejiang Province, and particularly Jinhua, has played in strengthening China’s partnership with Africa. He pointed out that the city has been a key facilitator in promoting multidimensional cooperation, encompassing sectors such as trade, education, and technology. This cooperation has not only bolstered economic growth but has also fostered deeper cultural understanding between China and African nations.
The forum also featured remarks from Lu Shan, deputy governor of Zhejiang. He emphasized the province’s commitment to leveraging its strengths to meet the evolving needs of African countries. Lu highlighted that Zhejiang will continue to broaden and deepen its cooperation, aiming to forge even stronger ties that address practical demands and create tangible benefits. “The province will focus on its own capabilities to respond to what Africa needs, continuously expanding the width and depth of its cooperation with Africa.” These words captured the essence of the forum’s goal—to not only sustain but also enhance bilateral engagement.
Prominent government officials and diplomats from various African nations, including Tanzania, South Africa, and the Republic of the Congo, attended the forum and shared their perspectives. They applauded the successful organization of the event and expressed their aspirations for continued and deeper cooperation between their countries and China. The consensus among these dignitaries was clear: the platform provided by the forum is invaluable for fostering dialogue, nurturing partnerships, and laying the groundwork for future collaborative projects.
Special representatives of the Chinese government on African affairs and other key officials, including members from the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and representatives from the city of Jinhua, also contributed valuable insights. Their presence reinforced the forum’s status as a significant meeting point for influential voices in the realm of China-Africa cooperation.
A noteworthy aspect of the 2024 forum was the presentation of tangible achievements in practical cooperation. Highlights included the launch of the 2024 China-Africa exchange month, which was themed “Cultural Silk Road.” This initiative aimed to celebrate and strengthen the cultural bonds between China and Africa, showcasing art, music, and shared heritage. Additionally, Zhejiang Normal University shared its latest research findings on Africa, which focused on collaborative opportunities and developmental strategies tailored for mutual benefit.
One of the standout reports presented at the forum detailed how partnerships between Chinese and African enterprises have catalyzed the advancement of Africa’s agricultural industrial chain. This report showcased success stories and case studies where joint efforts have resulted in innovative solutions, improved agricultural practices, and enhanced productivity, contributing to food security and economic resilience in African countries.
The event also marked the unveiling of the China-Africa (Jinhua) Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Park. This groundbreaking initiative is set to be a hub for knowledge exchange, technological development, and practical training, aimed at empowering African farmers and entrepreneurs with cutting-edge techniques and resources. This center symbolizes a long-term commitment to sustainable development and capacity building in the agricultural sector.
Among the many milestones celebrated during the forum, the signing of 28 new projects stood out. These projects span a wide array of areas, including trade, overseas investment and contracting, and the development of overseas warehouses. The total contract value of these agreements reached an impressive 47.91 billion yuan, equivalent to approximately 6.67 billion U.S. dollars. This substantial investment is expected to bring significant economic benefits to both China and African partner nations, reinforcing the forum’s theme of win-win cooperation.
“The forum also held a signing ceremony for the first batch of enterprises settled in a China-Africa themed building in Zhejiang’s Yiwu.” This milestone represents a tangible commitment to creating infrastructure that supports continued economic exchange and enterprise development. Yiwu, known for its dynamic trade environment, serves as an ideal location for fostering new business relationships and nurturing partnerships that align with the strategic interests of both regions.
The organization of the forum was led by the Zhejiang provincial government, with active participation and coordination by the Jinhua municipal government and Zhejiang Normal University. This collaborative effort underscored the strong institutional support behind the event, which was designed not only as a venue for discussion but as a catalyst for actionable outcomes.
The 2024 Forum on China-Africa Economic, Trade and Cultural Cooperation stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of both China and Africa to advance their shared objectives. By focusing on communication, mutual learning, and concrete actions, this forum has paved the way for a future marked by deepened trust, expanded partnerships, and meaningful progress. The agreements signed, the research shared, and the cultural initiatives launched are not just symbolic; they represent real steps toward building a comprehensive, cooperative relationship that promises growth and prosperity for all involved. This event has laid the foundation for continued collaboration, reinforcing the bonds between two dynamic regions that are keen to explore the full potential of their partnership.
