Journalists from English-Speaking African Countries Attend 2024 Forum on China-Africa Economic, Trade, and Cultural Cooperation

Journalists from English-speaking African countries gathered to participate in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Economic, Trade, and Cultural Cooperation, hosted by the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province.

The forum aimed to fine-tune strategies for enhanced collaboration, strengthen bilateral trade, encourage the establishment of more factories in Africa, and promote cultural exchange to pave the way for modernization.

Potential investors expressed eagerness to sign business contracts that would foster mutual partnerships.

The bilateral relationship between African countries and China has flourished for over 20 years, with approximately 5 billion USD invested in 2023 across eight African nations in trade and investment.

To enhance collaboration on a broader scale, both Chinese and African countries recognize their natural affinity. By deepening cooperation through business agreements, they aim to harness a powerful force for development that can significantly influence global progress.

Mr. Zhang Yangbin, Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, emphasized that regardless of global changes, the partnership between China and Africa remains focused on promoting modernization, which will have a sustainable and lasting impact on their economic prospects and strategic action plans.

Representatives from African nations, including the Tanzanian envoy to China and the Republic of South Africa’s Ambassador to China, H.E. Siyabonga C. Cwele, highlighted the seamless bilateral trade relationship that connects Africa with the global economy.

“Chinese investment in Africa has continued to flourish, showcasing the strength of our collaboration,” both representatives noted.

This bilateral cooperation creates a strong bond fostering deep understanding, with private enterprises in both Africa and China poised to benefit mutually.

Amid prominent dignitaries and representatives from major investment companies in China, the Permanent Representative of the African Union to China, Rahmatalla Mohamed Osman, affirmed that global economic growth depends on Africa’s abundant human and material resources, which hold significant potential for development.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Africa-China Innovation Pact and the signing of collaborative projects aimed at further strengthening relations.