President Xi Jinping Reaffirms China-Africa Ties, Pledges Stronger Partnership for a Shared Future.
By Raymond Enoch
As Africa strides forward in its pursuit of development and self-reliance, China has once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the continent’s growth and integration.
In a congratulatory message to the 38th African Union (AU) Summit on February 15, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his heartfelt wishes for Africa’s continued success, emphasizing the deep-rooted China-Africa partnership and its increasing influence in the global arena.
In his message, President Xi acknowledged the shifting global landscape, where the Global South—led by Africa and China—is emerging as a formidable force.
He commended the AU’s efforts in strengthening continental unity and responding to regional and international challenges. “Africa’s standing on the global stage continues to rise, and I sincerely wish African countries and peoples even greater success in their independent pursuit of development and revitalization,” Xi stated.
Over the years, China has consistently demonstrated its dedication to fostering strong ties with Africa. The successful hosting of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) marked a significant milestone in this partnership. The event ushered in a new phase of collaboration, reinforcing the vision of an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.”
President Xi highlighted key achievements of China-Africa relations, emphasizing trade, investment, and infrastructural development as crucial pillars. For 15 consecutive years, China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner. By the end of 2023, China’s direct investment stock in Africa had surpassed $40 billion, making the continent a major beneficiary of Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
The past decade has witnessed remarkable infrastructural transformations driven by China-Africa collaboration. Mega projects such as Nigeria’s Lekki Deep Sea Port, South Africa’s Solar Photovoltaic Power Plants, Zambia’s Kafue Gorge Lower Hydroelectric Power Station, and Senegal’s Fangjuni Bridge stand as testaments to the partnership’s impact. With over 1.5 gigawatts of solar power installed, thousands of African households now have access to sustainable energy.
As 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of FOCAC’s founding, both sides are gearing up to implement the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit. China has outlined several ambitious initiatives under the “Ten Partnership Actions,” including:
Zero-Tariff Treatment on 100% of taxable items from Africa, opening broader market access.
Enhanced Connectivity, linking land and sea routes for integrated development.
1,000 Small-Scale Livelihood Projects, aimed at improving communities across Africa.
Mechanisms, ensuring stable and long-term economic partnerships.
President Xi reassured African leaders that China remains steadfast in its commitment to the continent’s modernization. “China will always be the most trustworthy friend of African brothers and sisters, the most reliable partner in their pursuit of modernization, and their strongest supporter on the world stage,” he affirmed.
China’s engagement with Africa goes beyond economic investments—it is built on principles of mutual respect, shared prosperity, and long-term collaboration. The strategic nature of this relationship has evolved into a comprehensive partnership that extends across diplomacy, security, education, and technological exchange.
As the world grapples with uncertainty, China and Africa stand together as champions of South-South cooperation, determined to shape a future where development is inclusive and beneficial to all. With deepening ties and renewed commitments, the China-Africa partnership is set to enter an era of unprecedented growth, ushering in a new chapter of trust, unity, and shared progress.
