On a dazzling Wednesday night in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, hosted a vibrant banquet to kick off the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). With leaders from across Africa gathered, the atmosphere was electric—full of hope and camaraderie. 🎊
\"True friends always feel close to each other, no matter the distance between them,\" President Xi quoted a classic Chinese poem, capturing the essence of the China-Africa bond that's been growing stronger over decades. 💖
Having traveled to Africa 10 times, President Xi shared heartfelt memories of his journeys, emphasizing how every meeting with African leaders reinforced his belief in a shared future. He highlighted how both China and Africa have stood shoulder to shoulder, battling imperialism and colonialism, and are now marching together towards modernization. 🚀
FOCAC, established 24 years ago, has been a game-changer. Together, China and Africa have built roads, railways, schools, and hospitals—transforming lives and paving the way for a brighter future. 🛤️🏥
Amid challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the partnership has only grown stronger. \"We have made the voice of the Global South stronger,\" Xi proclaimed, emphasizing unity and collective progress. 🌍
He rallied the 2.8 billion-strong populations of China and Africa to stay united in pursuing modernization. \"We will accomplish new and even greater feats together,\" he declared, envisioning a future where both regions lead the way for the Global South. ✨
Raising his glass, President Xi toasted to the \"prosperity of China and African countries,\" the \"everlasting friendship,\" and the \"success of the Summit.\" Cheers echoed through the banquet hall, marking a hopeful start to the 2024 FOCAC Summit. 🥂
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Full text: Toast by Xi Jinping at welcome banquet of 2024 FOCAC summit
cgtn.com
