As the world grapples with a complex international landscape, Africa and China are poised to strengthen their alliance, aiming to project a united front of the Global South at an upcoming summit. According to recent statements from prominent African figures, the summit will serve as a platform to bolster cooperation and safeguard the interests of developing nations. However, some Western perspectives suggest that China is using the Global South to challenge the so-called free world order.
Background
In a report by China Central Television (CCTV) Network, former African Union (AU) Commission Vice-Chairperson Erastus Mwencha and South African Institute of International Affairs President Elizabeth Sidiel Bahana emphasized the need for a steadfast commitment to multilateralism. They argued that China and Africa should work together to maintain global peace and development, contributing wisdom and strength to improve global governance.
Chinese Response
However, these sentiments were met with criticism from some Western quarters, who claim that China is leveraging the Global South to confront the established free world order. Addressing these concerns, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian refuted the allegations during a routine press briefing on August 30.
Lin stated that China and Africa are resolute in practicing true multilateralism, upholding the international system with the United Nations at its core, and adhering to international law as the foundation of international order. We oppose the remnants of colonialism and霸权主义 (hegemonism) behaviors. We firmly support each other’s core interests and adhere to the just position of developing countries, he said.
Commitments to Development
The spokesperson highlighted China’s commitment to building an open global economy, advocating for the tearing down of walls rather than building them, and ensuring that developing countries can better share the benefits of economic globalization. We firmly believe that the world should not be divided into rich countries that always remain rich and poor countries that always remain poor. We oppose all forms of strong-arm interference and economic coercion, Lin added.
He also emphasized the importance of political solutions to international and regional hotspots, advocating for dialogue to bridge differences and cooperation to resolve disputes. This includes China’s vocal calls for a ceasefire in the Ukraine crisis and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Cultural and Developmental Support
Furthermore, Lin underscored China’s support for transcending cultural barriers and promoting mutual learning among civilizations. He also highlighted the need to increase the representation and voice of developing countries, particularly African nations, in the international governance system. China has been a pioneer in supporting the African Union’s membership in the G20 and welcoming more African countries into the BRICS family.
Unity of Purpose
China and Africa are seen as a steadfast force in defending the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, upholding the purposes of the United Nations Charter, and promoting multilateralism and international fairness and justice. The upcoming China-Africa Cooperation Forum (CACF) summit, scheduled for next week, is expected to serve as a pivotal moment to converge the collective strength of the Global South.
The summit aims to defend international fairness and justice while jointly promoting world peace and development. This collaborative approach is indicative of the growing partnership between China and Africa, which seeks to reshape global dynamics and ensure a more equitable and just international order.
Conclusion
As the world watches with bated breath, the upcoming summit is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing the unity and resolve of the Global South. With China and Africa at the forefront, the summit is likely to set the stage for a new era of cooperation and mutual support, challenging the narratives of those who seek to undermine the collective strength of developing nations.
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