By Ambassador Zhao Yong, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone

From January 8 to 12, H.E. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, successfully visited the African Union, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Lesotho. This visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Africa, and marked the 36th consecutive year that China's Foreign Minister has made Africa his first destination in the New Year. It holds profound significance and far-reaching implications.

China-Africa friendship is originated from our shoulder-to-shoulder struggle for national independence and liberation, and has matured through our shared commitment to social and economic development. The past year brought much turmoil to the world. At the beginning of the new year, China’s Foreign Minister once again visited this continent with hope, making Africa the starting point of China’s diplomacy each year. As Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated, this visit embodies the deep affection of the Chinese people for the African people, and shows the commitment and spirit that China will always be the first friend standing by Africa's side when African brothers and sisters need us.

At the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, President Xi Jinping solemnly proposed that China and Africa join hands to achieve the “six modernizations,” charting the future of China-Africa relations. Through joint efforts, over 90% of the FOCAC Beijing Summit's objectives have been implemented or made significant progress. More than 300 “smart and beautiful” projects are advancing smoothly, with China-Africa passenger flights increasing by 23%. Nearly 1,000 medical volunteers have provided free clinics in Africa, and over 200 agricultural experts have taken up posts. In the first 11 months of 2025, China-Africa trade volume surpassed the historic threshold of $300 billion. During this visit, Foreign Minister Wang Yi also formally launched the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges” with African counterparts. This initiative serves as both a shared celebration for the peoples of China and Africa and a comprehensive showcase of the achievements of China-Africa cooperation. Through nearly 600 exchange activities, the two sides will bring together peoples from various sectors, including youth, culture, and media, covering all areas of China-Africa engagement. This will enable the African people to gain a greater sense of fulfillment and deeper recognition of China-Africa friendship.

China is the largest developing country, while Africa is the continent with the most of developing nations. China and Africa share similar historical experiences and bear common historical responsibilities. The two sides coordinate closely on international and regional affairs, offering firm mutual support on issues involving each other's core interests and major concerns. Looking ahead, no matter how the international landscape may shift, we are confident that China and Africa will forever stand together in solidarity, resolutely uphold the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, and firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of African peoples.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit not only continues the fine tradition of Chinese foreign ministers making Africa their first destination at the beginning of the year for 36 consecutive years, but also reaffirms that no matter what changes occur in the international and regional landscape, China remains the most trustworthy friend of Africa's brothers and sisters, the most reliable partner for African countries pursuing development and revitalization, and the strongest backing for Africa on the international stage.

China will continue to uphold the spirit of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith. Together with Sierra Leone and other African nations, we will strengthen the alignment of our development strategies, jointly tackle global challenges, and continuously consolidate the foundation of our cooperation through mutual respect and shared prosperity. Let’s work together to make more contributions to building the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/walking-in-solidarity-on-the-great-path-for-a-bright-future-marking-the-36th-consecutive-new-year-visit-of-chinas-foreign-ministers-to-africa/