China has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing cooperation with Africa, pledging to stand against hegemonism, unilateralism, and protectionism while supporting the collective interests of the Global South.
This commitment was reiterated by Xue Bing, China’s Special Envoy for Horn of Africa Affairs, during a seminar held at the China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU) in Beijing. The event, titled “Building China-Africa Community with a Shared Future,” brought together African diplomats based in China and senior representatives from African diplomatic academies.
In his address, Xue highlighted the importance of young diplomats in shaping a common future, likening the enduring friendship between China and Africa to a mighty tree that sustains generations of diplomatic visionaries. He noted that both regions, as vital components of the Global South, must collaborate to tackle development challenges and narrow the global development divide.
Xue called for the creation of an equal and orderly multipolar world grounded in international law and jointly upheld by China and Africa under the principles of the UN Charter. He urged both sides to champion multilateralism and advocate for a fair, balanced international system built on mutual respect and equity.
In response to growing global instability, Xue emphasised the need for genuine multilateralism and a just system of global governance capable of addressing shared international issues. He warned that the use of coercive measures such as threats and tariffs to impose dominance undermines legitimate interests, breaches WTO regulations, and weakens the foundations of the multilateral trading framework.
Also speaking at the seminar, Ambassador Wang Shihting, CPC Committee Secretary of CFAU, encouraged nations to draw meaningful lessons from World War II and uphold peace and justice on the global stage. He noted that the year 2025, marking 80 years since the end of WWII, should serve as a moment of reflection and a call to support fairness in international relations.
Wang also referenced the upcoming 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit, emphasising the shared ambitions of both sides to pursue modernisation and build a robust China-Africa community with a shared future. He pointed out that, amid ongoing global tensions, young diplomats have a vital role in fostering peace and sustainable development.
Ambassador Vuyelwa Maud Dlomo of South Africa commended CFAU for organising the diplomatic forum as part of commemorative events marking the end of WWII. She underscored the importance of unity, equality, and sustainability in the quest for a more just global system.
Dlomo stated that these values are key to dismantling the obstacles that hinder the advancement of countries in the Global South.
She said, “Africa and China are vital partners in creating a shared, prosperous future for all nations.
“Global challenges demand cooperation, as success is never achieved in isolation.”
She concluded by calling for continued support of multilateral institutions and governance systems as foundations for lasting global peace and prosperity.