The upcoming state visit to South Africa by Chinese President Xi Jinping presents a vital opportunity to strengthen cooperation between China and the African continent. This trip is believed to be mutually beneficial for China-Africa relations and can catalyse progress towards their shared vision of an integrated and prosperous Africa.
Despite facing domestic challenges, President Xi’s willingness to travel to the region demonstrates China’s ongoing commitment to African partnerships. Chinese investment and trade have already helped accelerate African industrialisation and infrastructure connectivity. During this visit, leaders will hopefully discuss how to deepen these ties in a way that tangibly benefits African communities through job creation, technology transfers and sustainable development.
China’s own rapid growth provides inspiration for what is possible for an ascendant Africa in this century. African nations have much to gain from exchanges with China in areas ranging from digital innovation to agricultural modernisation. By coming together as equal partners with a shared goal of uplifting our people, China and Africa can achieve great things.
Some raise valid concerns about African agencies in China-Africa ties. Thus, African leaders must approach all external partnerships, including with China, with shrewd negotiation to secure win-win outcomes. But engagements like President Xi’s visit are ultimately opportunities to champion African sovereignty while mobilising investment in our continental vision.
With strategically crafted relations aligned with Africa’s interests, China can be a springboard for the continent’s ongoing rise. I look forward to vigorous discussions on realising the full promise of this cooperative friendship. Our destiny as Africans is in our hands.