Title: China’s Commitment Transforms the Landscape of Africa
China’s dedication is reshaping the face of the African continent. Throughout the 20th century, regardless of the global situation, Africa was always on China’s diplomatic agenda to varying degrees. However, it was only in the 21st century that, with Beijing’s relentless efforts, China-Africa cooperation achieved significant progress, complementing each other’s development.
A Relationship of Distinction
The relationship between China and Africa has always had a unique capital worth remembering and revisiting: the absence of colonialism. Unlike Western developed countries that have used their ties with Africa to control the financial systems of developing countries and the global governance structure, China has earned unparalleled credibility on the African continent.
As a developing country, China sees itself as an active member of the Global South, a stark contrast to the relationship types pushed by colonial and neocolonial powers historically. China’s experiences have naturally and effortlessly aligned with the expectations of the African continent, and numerous examples illustrate this point.
For instance, in poverty alleviation, China has successfully lifted nearly 100 million people out of poverty in just a decade. Today, it boasts a middle class of 400 million, a testament to the achievements of economic development, modernization, and a unique development path.
Addressing Hunger and Promoting Agricultural Development
In addressing hunger and promoting agricultural development, China has valuable experience to share. According to the latest data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, approximately 733 million people worldwide are hungry, with a significant portion in Africa, where one in every five people faces this challenge.
China has made agriculture a key pathway for poverty eradication and has achieved significant progress in agricultural development over the past 40 years. This not only ensures China’s food security but also lays a solid foundation for sustainable agricultural development. This path is crucial for Africa, where the smallholder economy is a dominant force.
To combat hunger, China has dispatched hundreds of agricultural experts to Africa and provided training opportunities for thousands of local agricultural professionals. Helping Africa cultivate high-quality agricultural talent and promote agricultural development is a fundamental requirement for the continent to embark on a different development path.
China’s efforts to help Africa enhance food security through technological innovation are a significant achievement often overlooked.
Health Challenges and China’s Response
Health issues also highlight China’s commitment. We vividly remember the recent spread of COVID-19 and the new monkeypox virus in Africa. In these challenging times, China has once again come to the aid of the continent.
A Long-Term Commitment
Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, China has made significant efforts to invest in infrastructure and industrial development across the African region.
China-Africa trade and investment cooperation has been steadily advancing. Last year, bilateral trade exceeded $282 billion, with China being Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. By the end of 2023, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeded $40 billion, becoming one of the major sources of foreign investment on the continent.
A recent report by the China-Africa Business Council indicates that China-Africa investment cooperation has injected new vitality into Africa’s industrialization. The document states that China is the largest developing country investor in Africa, and the cooperation between the two sides has been steadily developing. Chinese companies are improving Africa’s industrial system, promoting its industrialization process, and enhancing the quality of its development.
Over the past three years, Chinese companies have established factories or invested in economic and trade cooperation zones in Africa, covering sectors such as agriculture, processing manufacturing, and commodity logistics. This has attracted over 1,000 companies, helping to increase local taxes and foreign exchange earnings.
China’s commitment to Africa is not just a short-term endeavor but a long-term strategy that aims to transform the continent’s landscape. By sharing its experiences, investing in infrastructure, and promoting industrial development, China is playing a pivotal role in Africa’s growth and prosperity. This partnership is not only beneficial for both sides but also contributes to global stability and development.
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