Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi recently kicked off his 2026 Africa tour, reinforcing the deep bond between China and the continent. This year marks the 36th straight year that Beijing’s top diplomat visits Africa first—and it coincides with the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic ties and the launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan.
A tradition of strategic trust 🌍
For over three decades, China has made Africa the first stop of its yearly foreign trips. Professor Wang Jingjie from Peking University’s National School of Development says this shows the partnership is long-term, not just a one-off deal. This year, Wang Yi met with African Union leaders and visited key East African nations to support regional integration and stability.
People-to-people power ✨
At the African Union headquarters, Wang Yi and African leaders launched the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Lesotho’s Ambassador to China, Mapaballo Mile, views it as a new phase that brings communities closer—from cultural swaps and student programs to youth media projects. For young Africans facing high unemployment, these exchanges build skills and trust, giving the partnership a human face.
Upgrading partnerships in Ethiopia and Tanzania 🚀
In Ethiopia, the focus is shifting from one-off projects to long-term capacity building. Digital economy, green energy and electric vehicles are on the rise. It’s like leveling up a video game character explains Professor Wang Jingjie. In Tanzania, the TAZARA railway is being revitalized to boost regional trade and industrial clusters across East Africa.
Timely support in Lesotho 🛠️
Wang Yi’s visit to Lesotho came when new US tariffs threatened local factories. Ambassador Mile highlights progress in renewable energy, digital connectivity and healthcare—upgrades to Maseru District Hospital and upcoming cancer treatment facilities. She adds that this help eases their budget and improves health for everyone.
Championing multilateralism 🌐
In a world of rising unilateral moves, Wang Yi and African partners stress the need for multilateralism. They praise China’s Global Governance Initiative for promoting respect for sovereignty, non-interference and fair play—principles that match Africa’s own vision for stable, shared development.
The road ahead: high-quality cooperation
Looking forward, experts are optimistic. They see a shift toward sustainable investment, digital innovation and green manufacturing—all powered by youth empowerment. Ambassador Mile highlights green development and manufacturing as priorities in a modern blueprint for mutual growth and prosperity. 🤝✨
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Wang Yi's Africa visit reinforces strategic trust and multilateralism
cgtn.com
