Chinese President Xi Jinping extended warm congratulations to the 38th African Union (AU) Summit held on February 15, 2025. His message highlighted the collaborative achievements and future aspirations shared by China and African nations.

A New Era of China-Africa Partnership

President Xi emphasized the robust development of China-Africa relations, particularly following the successful Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in September 2024. This summit marked a pivotal moment, propelling both parties into a new phase of building an “all-weather community with a shared future.” The commitments made during FOCAC 2024 have set the stage for enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, trade, and technology.

Strategic Initiatives and Investments

At the 2024 Beijing Summit, China pledged approximately $51 billion in financial support to African countries. This package encompasses loans, aid, and investments aimed at fostering industrialization, agricultural advancement, and infrastructural development across the continent. Notably, President Xi announced plans to create at least one million jobs in Africa, reflecting China’s commitment to tangible economic growth and development in its partner nations.

Collaborative Efforts in Modernization

In his address to the AU Summit, President Xi expressed readiness to collaborate with African leaders on implementing six proposals focused on joint modernization efforts. These initiatives are designed to bring substantial benefits to over 2.8 billion people across China and Africa. The proposed areas of cooperation include:

1. Infrastructure Development: Implementing 30 key infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and support economic integration.

2. Industrialization Support: Empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through financing, training, and market access initiatives.

3. Digital Technology Cooperation: Establishing a China-Africa digital technology cooperation center to facilitate digital infrastructure projects and support technological transformation.

4. Public Health Collaboration: Deepening technical cooperation in public health, including training professionals and supporting the development of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

5. Trade and Economic Integration: Advancing the development of trade zones and promoting the integration of industry and trade between China and Africa.

6. Sustainable Development: Focusing on eco-friendly projects and green technology to promote sustainable growth.

Strengthening the Global South

President Xi highlighted the growing influence of the Global South, with China and Africa playing pivotal roles in shaping the international order. He commended the AU’s leadership in advancing regional integration, addressing global challenges, and amplifying Africa’s voice on the world stage. This partnership not only enhances bilateral relations but also contributes to a more balanced and equitable global landscape.

Conclusion

The 38th African Union Summit served as a platform to reaffirm and strengthen the enduring partnership between China and Africa. Through strategic initiatives, substantial investments, and a shared vision for modernization and development, both parties are poised to achieve significant milestones that will benefit their populations and contribute to global progress.