The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China has announced that a new batch of cooperation plans for the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will be signed with several African countries during the 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum Summit. The summit is scheduled to take place from September 4 to 6 in Beijing.
Background
The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, aims to enhance regional connectivity and cooperation through infrastructure development, trade, and investment. Over the years, the initiative has gained significant traction, with numerous countries, including those in Africa, expressing interest and participating in various projects.
NDRC’s Announcement
During a press briefing at the summit’s news center on September 2, Xu Jianping, the Director General of the Department of Regional Opening of the NDRC, revealed that China is set to sign new cooperation plans with several African nations. These plans will build upon the existing partnerships and further enhance the strategic alignment between China’s development goals and those of African countries.
Existing Collaborations
Xu highlighted that over the past 11 years, 52 African countries and the African Union have signed cooperation memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with China, indicating a high degree of consensus on the principles, objectives, and approaches of the BRI. This has paved the way for the signing of specific cooperation plans with countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Mauritania, Morocco, Mozambique, and the African Union.
Key Features of the New Plans
The upcoming cooperation plans are expected to integrate the development strategies of African countries and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 with the practical needs of businesses. These plans will be structured around a list of projects and activities that are designed to be implemented in successive phases, ensuring a sustainable and dynamic approach to development.
Guiding Principles
Xu emphasized that the China-Africa BRI cooperation adheres to key guiding principles, including mutual consultation, joint construction, shared benefits, openness, green development, integrity, high standards, benefitting the people, and sustainability. This approach aims to ensure that the partnership respects the interests and development rights of African countries and promotes a spirit of collective decision-making.
Focus on Talent Development
In addition to infrastructure and economic development, China and Africa are also collaborating on talent development. The African Student Employment Express program, multiple scholarship initiatives, and the establishment of 17 Lu Ban Workshops in Africa are testament to this commitment. These efforts have helped cultivate a significant number of skilled professionals in the African continent.
Implications and Future Outlook
The signing of new BRI cooperation plans is a significant step forward in China-Africa relations. It not only reflects the deepening economic ties but also underscores the shared vision for a prosperous and interconnected future. As the partnership continues to evolve, it is likely to yield substantial benefits for both parties, fostering greater economic integration, development synergy, and mutual prosperity.
The 2024 China-Africa Cooperation Forum Summit serves as a platform to consolidate past achievements and chart the course for future collaborations. With the signing of new cooperation plans, China and Africa are poised to further strengthen their strategic partnership and contribute to the global development agenda.
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