After concluding his visit to the African Union, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Lesotho, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi was interviewed by Chinese media. He emphasized that China’s cooperation with Africa adheres to the principle of leaving no one behind and that no country should be left behind. China warmly welcomes all African countries to board the express train of China’s development and also calls on the international community to pay greater attention to Africa and increase investment in the continent.
Wang Yi stated that the past year has been turbulent for the world and even more challenging for Africa. When Africa was again being “forgotten,” China made Africa the starting point of its diplomacy. When Africa was hit by the shock of tariff “big sticks,” China announced the “big gift” of zero tariffs for African countries. When some external forces pointed fingers at African affairs, China firmly supported Africa in safeguarding its own sovereignty, security, and national dignity. When Lesotho was questioned as to “where is it even located,” China visited Lesotho and acted as their strategic partner.
Wang Yi pointed out that the successful practice of Chinese-style modernization provides useful references and new options for the vast developing countries. Facts have proven that modernization does not equate to Westernization, nor does Westernization necessarily lead to modernization. The key is to find a development path that suits one’s own national conditions and is supported by the people. China is willing to build an institutionalized platform with African countries to exchange governance experience, support African nations as they actively explore paths to success that suit their national needs, benefit the general population, and make full use of their own resource endowments.
He stated that China and Africa will always firmly stand together to resolutely defend the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and steadfastly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the African people. “Neoliberalism” in Africa is on the verge of bankruptcy, and “neocolonialism” will find no market in Africa. All forms of oppression and bullying will be driven out of Africa and never return.