6th January 2025 – (Beijing) In light of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s official visit to four African countries this week, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed questions regarding China’s perspective on Africa’s future development. Guo highlighted that for 35 consecutive years, Chinese foreign ministers have prioritised Africa as their first destination at the start of each year, underscoring the strong and revitalised friendship between China and the African continent, as well as China’s unwavering dedication to fostering cooperative ties.
Guo asserted that China views Africa not as a “forgotten continent,” but rather as a “source of vitality” and a “land of development.” He noted that Africa plays a crucial role in global governance, as countries across the continent embrace Pan-Africanism and are rapidly advancing towards unity, self-reliance, and integrated development.
The spokesperson further elaborated that Africa is a significant contributor to the global economy. According to projections from the African Development Bank Group, the continent’s economic growth rate is anticipated to reach 3.7 per cent in 2024, surpassing the global average. Notably, half of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies will be African nations.
As the cradle of human civilisation, Africa is also the youngest continent, with 70 percent of its population under 30, filled with energy and potential. Guo emphasised that amidst unprecedented global changes, the Global South, represented by China and Africa, is thriving and significantly influencing the trajectory of world history. He concluded that a prosperous Africa will undoubtedly enhance contributions to global peace and development.
