President Xi Jinping Congratulates African Union Summit, Pledges Stronger China-Africa Cooperation

By Iyojo Ameh

Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended warm congratulations to African countries and their people on the occasion of the 38th African Union (AU) Summit.

In a message delivered to the summit, President Xi highlighted the growing influence of the Global South, with China and Africa playing a pivotal role in shaping global developments. He praised the AU for fostering regional integration and amplifying Africa’s voice on international issues, ensuring the continent’s rising prominence in global affairs.

“As the world experiences significant changes and challenges, Africa has stood resilient, promoting unity and development. I sincerely wish African nations even greater success in their independent pursuit of progress and revitalization,” Xi stated.
President Xi emphasized that China-Africa relations had experienced remarkable growth in 2024, marked by the successful Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with African leaders to implement key initiatives under the “Ten Partnership Actions,” aimed at delivering tangible benefits to the 2.8 billion people across both regions.

Notably, Xi has consistently sent congratulatory messages to the AU Summit since 2013, demonstrating China’s unwavering support for Africa’s development and cooperation. His latest message reaffirms China’s dedication to strengthening its partnership with the AU and deepening mutual cooperation.

China remains Africa’s largest trading partner for the 15th consecutive year, as well as a major source of foreign direct investment (FDI). By the end of 2023, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeded $40 billion, contributing significantly to infrastructure development across the continent.

Some of the key projects include: Lekki Deep Sea Port (Nigeria) – boosting maritime trade and logistics, Solar Photovoltaic Power Plants (South Africa) – enhancing renewable energy capacity, Kafue Gorge Lower Hydroelectric Power Station (Zambia) – expanding electricity supply and Fangjuni Bridge (Senegal) – improving transportation networks.

China-Africa cooperation in renewable energy has also grown, with co-built solar power plants exceeding a combined capacity of 1.5 gigawatts, providing electricity to thousands of households.

The year 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of FOCAC and the first year of implementing the outcomes of its Beijing Summit. President Xi outlined future initiatives to strengthen China-Africa trade and investment, including: Full implementation of zero-tariff treatment on 100% taxable items, Expansion of China-Africa land-sea trade networks, Execution of 1,000 ‘small and beautiful’ livelihood projects and Enhanced mechanisms for trade and investment cooperation.

These efforts according to him, aims to provide African nations with broader market access, applicable technologies, and stable investment opportunities to support their modernization agendas.
Despite global uncertainties, President Xi assured that China remains a steadfast ally of Africa. “China will always be Africa’s most trustworthy friend, reliable development partner, and strongest supporter on the world stage,” he stated.

He reaffirmed China’s diplomatic commitment to Africa, guided by principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness. China and Africa will continue to work together in pursuit of a comprehensive strategic partnership, fostering deeper trust, cooperation, and shared prosperity in the years ahead.

As the AU Summit unfolds, President Xi’s message underscores China’s dedication to strengthening ties with Africa and ensuring long-term economic and developmental progress across the continent. With key initiatives in place, the China-Africa partnership is set to reach new heights, driving mutual growth and global influence.