By Abu Bakarr Kargbo in Beijing
Top officials of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) highlighted the deepening economic cooperation between China and African countries, underscoring the significant strides made in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable development across the continent.
Lin Honghong, Deputy Director General of the Department of International Relations of CCPIT, emphasized the longstanding friendship and strategic guidance that has underpinned the fruitful collaboration between China and Africa. According to Lin, the foreign direct investment from China to Africa surged to an impressive $40 billion in 2023, with Chinese companies creating over one million jobs on the continent. This milestone solidifies China’s position as the largest development partner and employer in Africa, symbolizing the robust ties between the two regions.
Speaking at the press conference, Lin reaffirmed CCPIT’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation with African counterparts and facilitating trade sessions that would further enhance economic exchanges between China and Africa. The focus on increasing trade volumes and expanding commercial interactions underscores the shared commitment to nurturing a thriving trade relationship and driving economic growth on both sides.
Echoing Lin’s sentiments, Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, emphasized the pivotal role of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in bolstering ties between China and African nations. Highlighting the collaborative efforts towards achieving win-win outcomes and fostering common prosperity, Zhang underscored the importance of quality trade promotion and fostering partnerships for sustainable development.
Zhang further elaborated on the significance of the upcoming FOCAC Summit, noting that the offline event would provide a platform for leaders to engage in substantive discussions on economic cooperation and development initiatives. Emphasizing China’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the previous CPC session, Zhang reiterated China’s dedication to enhancing trade cooperation, opening up new avenues for partnership, and working towards a shared future with Africa.
As part of the summit agenda, discussions on the promotion and integration of supply chains, as well as the development of industries, are poised to take centre stage. China and Africa, with their shared vision for trade development and industrial growth, are set to explore avenues for deepening collaboration and advancing mutual interests.
A key highlight of the upcoming summit is the Entrepreneurs Conference scheduled for September 6, where twelve entrepreneurs from China and Africa will convene to share insights, experiences, and prospects for development. With an impressive turnout of one thousand participants exceeding expectations, the conference is poised to facilitate meaningful dialogue and strengthen business ties between the two regions.
Moreover, the participation of heads of state, major companies, and small and medium-sized enterprises underscores the diverse and inclusive nature of the summit discussions. Through robust engagement and dialogue, the China-Africa community aims to propel trade cooperation to new heights, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth across sectors.
Sun Xiao, Spokesperson of CCPIT, highlighted the significant strides in clean energy and clean development projects undertaken in collaboration with African partners. Committing to exploring tailored development paths aligned with Africa’s developmental needs, CCPIT reaffirmed its dedication to fostering stronger cooperation in clean energy initiatives under the FOCAC framework.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing serves as a pivotal moment for China and Africa to deepen economic ties, foster innovation, and chart a path towards sustainable development. With a focus on inclusive growth, partnership building, and mutual prosperity, the summit sets the stage for enhanced collaboration and shared successes between the two regions, marking a new chapter in the dynamic China-Africa relationship.
