🚀 Today, Jan 7, 2026, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has kicked off his first overseas trip of the year with a journey to Africa!
✈️ From Jan 7 to 12, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, will visit four countries: Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania and Lesotho. This marks the 36th straight year that a Chinese foreign minister chooses Africa as the starting point for their first diplomatic mission of the year 🌍.
🤝 During his tour, Wang Yi will head to the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa to join the launch ceremony for the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. This special event aims to celebrate and deepen connections between communities across the Chinese mainland and Africa.
💡 Why Africa first? For 36 years, Africa has been the go-to launchpad for Chinese top diplomats, signaling the importance of this vibrant continent in global affairs. From politics and trade to culture and education, these trips set the tone for China's foreign policy priorities in the months ahead.
Stay tuned as Wang Yi meets local leaders, explores new partnership opportunities, and brings fresh energy to China-Africa relations! ✨
Reference(s):
Wang Yi to visit four African countries in first overseas trip of 2026
cgtn.com
