NAIROBI, Kenya – In a strong reaffirmation of China’s commitment to Africa, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday sent warm congratulations to the 38th African Union (AU) Summit, emphasizing Africa’s growing global influence and China’s steadfast support for the continent’s independence and self-reliance.
With the AU summit’s theme focusing on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” the discussions underscored Africa’s pursuit of strategic autonomy, while China reinforced its role as a key partner in the continent’s modernization.
Over the past year, the AU has led Africa’s charge toward regional integration while responding to global challenges.
Chinese President #XiJinping on Saturday sent a message to the 38th African Union (AU) Summit, extending warm congratulations to African countries and people. english.cctv.com/2025/02/17/ART…
Xi praised these efforts, highlighting Africa’s increasing international influence.
His message resonated with leaders across the continent, including Ibrahim Gambari, Nigeria’s former foreign minister, who noted China’s unwavering support in ensuring Africa’s voice is heard at global forums like the G20 and BRICS.
China was among the first to back the AU’s entry into the G20, reinforcing its stance as a champion of the Global South.
African scholars, including Kenyan international relations expert Adhere Cavince, view China’s initiatives—such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Development Initiative—as transformative frameworks fostering sustainable development and economic stability.
These projects serve as tangible proof of China’s commitment to a multipolar world where African nations play a more prominent role.
Xi’s congratulatory message also pointed to China and Africa’s deep-rooted cooperation through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Established in 2000, FOCAC has evolved into a high-impact platform, driving investment in African infrastructure, industrialization, and talent development.
“We’re quite honored to receive President Xi’s message,” said Lerato D. Mataboge, the newly elected AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy. “China has been instrumental in Africa’s industrial growth, and we look forward to expanding these collaborations.
This morning at AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, President Kagame joined other Heads of State and Government for the opening of the 38th AU Summit where he witnessed the handover of the AU chairmanship from President Mohamed Ould Cheikh AI- Ghazouani of the Islamic Republic of…
China’s impact on Africa extends beyond infrastructure.
The country’s zero-tariff policy on 100pc of tariff lines for least-developed African nations reflects its commitment to fair trade.
Looking ahead, Xi expressed his willingness to work closely with African leaders on six key proposals and ten partnership actions aimed at accelerating the continent’s modernization.
These initiatives, spanning youth career development, industrialization, and agricultural transformation, align with Africa’s broader development agenda.
The AU’s focus on self-reliance aligns with China’s long-standing investment in Africa’s human capital.
“On the path to modernization, no one, and no country, should be left behind,” Xi said, reinforcing his vision for a more equitable global economic landscape.
With China’s backing, Africa is poised to redefine its role in global development, ensuring that progress is not just a promise, but a reality.
