Strengthening Political and Economic Ties
This year, China and Africa commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations. The milestone emphasises their robust partnership in economic development and political cooperation. On Saturday, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi exchanged congratulatory messages for the occasion, highlighting the significance of their ties.
Over the decades, the relationship between China and Africa has transformed from solidarity during Africa’s independence movements to a comprehensive strategic partnership focused on modernization and development. Since 2000, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has played a pivotal role in structuring this collaboration, facilitating various initiatives and agreements.
President Xi Jinping underscored the importance of China-Egypt ties as a benchmark for cooperation between China and Arab states and with Africa at large. Recent initiatives, such as the expansion of duty-free access to all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties by 2025, reflect this commitment.
Economic Growth and Development
Economic cooperation remains a cornerstone of China-Africa relations. By 2025, trade between the two is expected to reach a record $348 billion. For 17 consecutive years, China has maintained its position as Africa’s largest trading partner. Initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative focus on infrastructure development, enhancing connectivity and trade.
Infrastructure projects such as the Tazara Railway and the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway exemplify high-quality developments reshaping the continent. China has also signed debt-relief agreements with 19 African countries, reinforcing its role as a key partner in sustainable development.
According to Tanzanian economist Humphrey Moshi, China-Africa cooperation is a significant example of Global South solidarity, aiding developing nations in becoming ‘active shapers’ of international rules.
China has trained thousands of African professionals through scholarships and exchange programmes in education. The establishment of 17 Luban Workshops in 15 African countries further exemplifies China’s investment in skill development and knowledge transfer.
Paul Frimpong from the Africa-China Centre for Policy & Advisory stated, “China has profoundly impacted Africa’s modernization, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and green energy.”
Earlier this year, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Africa, continuing a 36-year tradition of making the continent the destination of China’s foreign minister’s first overseas trip each year. This tradition highlights the importance of China-Africa relations.
The 2024 FOCAC summit marked another milestone, upgrading the relationship to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. By 2025, China will expand duty-free access from 33 to all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, becoming the first major economy to grant such extensive zero-tariff treatment.
Last updated: 1 June 2026, 5:55 pm
