Latest news with #ForumonChina-AfricaCooperation
The Star
08-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Echoes of Bandung as China and Africa rally towards high-quality cooperation
Gideon H Chitanga | Published 4 hours ago The Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was held in Changsha, central China's Hunan province. The Changsha meeting, held last month, invoked the spirit of Bandung, calling the Global South to unite in confronting contemporary global instability embedded in historical structural injustices that have exploited disunity within the Global South. China is the world's second-largest economy, while the African continent is home to the largest number of developing countries. With an estimated combined population of over three billion people, Africa and China together form the backbone of the Global South, and a significant demographic and economic share of the world. While the two sides have immensely stronger diplomatic and economic ties over the past two decades, and share decades of closer mutual solidarity, complex and turbulent geopolitical factors pose major threats to flourishing cooperation. Intra-state conflicts in some African countries have aggravated economic and political pressures on continental development and international cooperation. A combination of amplified geopolitical tensions and conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, Israel and the people of Palestine, and now Israel and Iran has raised the prospects of unprecedented global instability. The unilateral imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration on major trading partners, including China and countries in the African continent, risks upending global trade with severe consequences for developing countries. Most economies in the Global South will be vulnerable to economic shocks from heightened global inflation and the economic weight of external debts tied to the US dollar. These countries will also be squeezed for new capital to meet domestic development needs. The Changsha meeting, which aimed to push for the full implementation of the FOCAC Beijing Summit outcomes, reemphasised the need for countries in the Global South to work together. The meeting was attended by representatives of the People's Republic of China, 53 African countries and representatives of the African Union Commission. The delegates at the high-level gathering concluded with the signing of the Changsha Declaration, which in many ways invokes the spirit of the Bandung conference of 1955 in calling for deepened cooperation and solidarity in the Global South. As published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, the Changsha Declaration states, 'Guided by the consensus reached by our leaders during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), gathered in Changsha to advance the full implementation of the Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era: We agree that the rise and growth of the Global South represents the trend of the times and the future of development. China and Africa are both important members of and staunch forces in the Global South.' The Changsha meeting and the subsequent declaration reflect growing unity and cooperation between China, Africa and the Global South, which was historically demonstrated at the Bandung conference in 1955 at the height of colonialism and the Cold War. The Bandung Conference was a landmark meeting which brought together 29 newly independent African states and Asian countries to discuss common challenges and promote cooperation in the face of international polarisation and oppressive hegemonic dominance. Considering the pervasive challenge of Western colonial and neo-colonial domination, which parallels contemporary neoliberal unilateral hegemony, the Bandung Conference continues to resonate with the aspirations of the Global South for economic and political freedom and the need to deepen cooperation and solidarity among the global majority. Its ground breaking 10-point "declaration on the promotion of world peace and cooperation," incorporating the principles of the United Nations Charter, and such principles as political self-determination, respect for national sovereignty amongst nations, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality laid the groundwork for the Non-Aligned Movement , and stands out as the basis for peaceful coexistence in the world. The Changsha declaration reignited the spirit of Bandung by reemphasising the need for unity, solidarity, deepened cooperation and self-reliance amongst countries in the Global South. Its declaration reinvents and locates the principles of the Bandung conference at the centre of efforts by the Global South to confront emerging challenges in a turbulent world. The Changsha declaration calls all countries of the Global South to work together to safeguard multilateralism, promote multipolarity and oppose unilateralism and bullying. It rejects the unilateral imposition of sweeping tariffs by the Trump administration on trading partners. Such protectionist policies and economic bullying could throw the global economy into jeopardy, triggering economic and political instability in developing countries. The declaration also called all countries to work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, promote the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI). These initiatives have brought together the Global South to collectively work towards a more just and equal global community of nations, promoting fair multilateralism in which all countries, nations and diverse civilisations are mutually respected. The Changsha declaration strongly reaffirms the principles of solidarity, cooperation and mutual benefit, which underpin China-Africa relations, and makes a powerful statement against attempts to divide the Global South. It further reinforces growing China-Africa and unity within the Global South as bigger powers exercise responsible leadership. While some major powers have embarked on a nationalistic posture, imposing tariffs and cutting aid to the most vulnerable and historically disadvantaged countries, China has steadily increased its support towards the sustainable development and modernisation of Africa and the Global South. For instance, China has committed to expanding its zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. Beijing has also extended its support for green energy, AI, science, and technology initiatives in Africa and the Global South. The holding of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) under the theme, "China and Africa: Together Toward Modernisation", signifies a shift towards the consolidation of relations of China-Africa cooperation. The Trade Expo highlighted progress towards the 'Ten Partner Actions' of FOCAC 2024. African countries such as the Congo Republic, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Nigeria showcased their agricultural, mining and construction industry products, demonstrating deepening mutually beneficial China-Africa economic cooperation. The theme of the Expo aligned with the China-Africa "Ten Action Plans", including cultural and people-to-people exchange, trade, industrial cooperation, connectivity, health, agriculture, green development, and security, to dovetail into the goals agreed at the FOCAC 2024. It also focused on green development goals and industries, renewables and "zero carbon exhibition", highlighting the shift towards climate-friendly development, a major issue in the demand for global social, environmental and economic justice. As can be summed up from the five-point proposal made by Wang Yi, the Foreign Minister of China during the Changsha gathering, the perilous contemporary economic and political global context calls for consolidated cooperation amongst the nations of the Global South. Wang Yi rallied African counterparts to work together in fostering mutual assistance, to defend and deepen solidarity amongst countries of the Global South, advance economic openness and international free trade promoting fair economic globalization. He urged China and Africa to work together towards human progress, centred on mutually beneficial cooperation bearing win-win outcomes, based on mutual trust and respect. As echoed at Bandung, it's unity and cooperation, or we perish. Gideon H Chitanga, PhD, is an International Relations Expert and political analyst
IOL News
08-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Echoes of Bandung as China and Africa rally towards high-quality cooperation
China is the world's second-largest economy, while the African continent is home to the largest number of developing countries. Image: REUTERS/David Gray The Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was held in Changsha, central China's Hunan province. The Changsha meeting, held last month, invoked the spirit of Bandung, calling the Global South to unite in confronting contemporary global instability embedded in historical structural injustices that have exploited disunity within the Global South. China is the world's second-largest economy, while the African continent is home to the largest number of developing countries. With an estimated combined population of over three billion people, Africa and China together form the backbone of the Global South, and a significant demographic and economic share of the world. While the two sides have immensely stronger diplomatic and economic ties over the past two decades, and share decades of closer mutual solidarity, complex and turbulent geopolitical factors pose major threats to flourishing cooperation. Intra-state conflicts in some African countries have aggravated economic and political pressures on continental development and international cooperation. A combination of amplified geopolitical tensions and conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, Israel and the people of Palestine, and now Israel and Iran has raised the prospects of unprecedented global instability. The unilateral imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration on major trading partners, including China and countries in the African continent, risks upending global trade with severe consequences for developing countries. Most economies in the Global South will be vulnerable to economic shocks from heightened global inflation and the economic weight of external debts tied to the US dollar. These countries will also be squeezed for new capital to meet domestic development needs. The Changsha meeting, which aimed to push for the full implementation of the FOCAC Beijing Summit outcomes, reemphasised the need for countries in the Global South to work together. The meeting was attended by representatives of the People's Republic of China, 53 African countries and representatives of the African Union Commission. The delegates at the high-level gathering concluded with the signing of the Changsha Declaration, which in many ways invokes the spirit of the Bandung conference of 1955 in calling for deepened cooperation and solidarity in the Global South. As published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, the Changsha Declaration states, 'Guided by the consensus reached by our leaders during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), gathered in Changsha to advance the full implementation of the Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era: We agree that the rise and growth of the Global South represents the trend of the times and the future of development. China and Africa are both important members of and staunch forces in the Global South.' The Changsha meeting and the subsequent declaration reflect growing unity and cooperation between China, Africa and the Global South, which was historically demonstrated at the Bandung conference in 1955 at the height of colonialism and the Cold War. The Bandung Conference was a landmark meeting which brought together 29 newly independent African states and Asian countries to discuss common challenges and promote cooperation in the face of international polarisation and oppressive hegemonic dominance. Considering the pervasive challenge of Western colonial and neo-colonial domination, which parallels contemporary neoliberal unilateral hegemony, the Bandung Conference continues to resonate with the aspirations of the Global South for economic and political freedom and the need to deepen cooperation and solidarity among the global majority. Its ground breaking 10-point "declaration on the promotion of world peace and cooperation," incorporating the principles of the United Nations Charter, and such principles as political self-determination, respect for national sovereignty amongst nations, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality laid the groundwork for the Non-Aligned Movement, and stands out as the basis for peaceful coexistence in the world. The Changsha declaration reignited the spirit of Bandung by reemphasising the need for unity, solidarity, deepened cooperation and self-reliance amongst countries in the Global South. Its declaration reinvents and locates the principles of the Bandung conference at the centre of efforts by the Global South to confront emerging challenges in a turbulent world. The Changsha declaration calls all countries of the Global South to work together to safeguard multilateralism, promote multipolarity and oppose unilateralism and bullying. It rejects the unilateral imposition of sweeping tariffs by the Trump administration on trading partners. Such protectionist policies and economic bullying could throw the global economy into jeopardy, triggering economic and political instability in developing countries. The declaration also called all countries to work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, promote the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI). These initiatives have brought together the Global South to collectively work towards a more just and equal global community of nations, promoting fair multilateralism in which all countries, nations and diverse civilisations are mutually respected. The Changsha declaration strongly reaffirms the principles of solidarity, cooperation and mutual benefit, which underpin China-Africa relations, and makes a powerful statement against attempts to divide the Global South. It further reinforces growing China-Africa and unity within the Global South as bigger powers exercise responsible leadership. While some major powers have embarked on a nationalistic posture, imposing tariffs and cutting aid to the most vulnerable and historically disadvantaged countries, China has steadily increased its support towards the sustainable development and modernisation of Africa and the Global South. For instance, China has committed to expanding its zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. Beijing has also extended its support for green energy, AI, science, and technology initiatives in Africa and the Global South. The holding of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) under the theme, "China and Africa: Together Toward Modernisation", signifies a shift towards the consolidation of relations of China-Africa cooperation. The Trade Expo highlighted progress towards the 'Ten Partner Actions' of FOCAC 2024. African countries such as the Congo Republic, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Nigeria showcased their agricultural, mining and construction industry products, demonstrating deepening mutually beneficial China-Africa economic cooperation.
The Star
28-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Feature: Chinese medical team brings free healthcare to Uganda's remote border district
KIKUUBE, Uganda, June 28 (Xinhua) -- As the sun rose over the Rift Valley escarpment in Uganda's remote western district of Kikuube, 45-year-old Jennifer Nyangoma made her way to a much-anticipated free medical camp. For weeks, villagers in this region bordering the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo had heard of a healthcare outreach organized by a Chinese medical team from Kampala, more than 300 kilometers away. The team, comprising cardiologists, pediatricians, general surgeons, acupuncture specialists and public health experts from the 24th Chinese medical team, was joined by over 20 Ugandan medical professionals. As they set up at Buhuka Health Center III, a community-level facility serving over 10,000 people, Nyangoma was among the first in line. After her diagnosis, doctors recommended acupuncture, a traditional Chinese needle therapy. "The doctors have checked me and said they are going to insert several needles in me. I received the treatment and I hope I will get better. I have moved to several health facilities, but I continue to suffer from joint and back pain," Nyangoma told Xinhua. By midday, hundreds had gathered in the sheltered waiting area. Among them was 30-year-old Evelyn Atuhura and her three children. "By 7 a.m., I was already up preparing the children to come here. My children have not been very well. The Chinese have given us treatment, and I really thank them," she said as she received medication. Linard Kule, acting in-charge of the health center, said the camp not only provides critical care and medical supplies but also fosters knowledge exchange between Chinese and Ugandan health professionals. Li Yun, head of the Chinese medical team, said the camp aims to serve about 1,000 people. "We also learnt a lot from our Ugandan colleagues. I am inspired by the resilience of local healthcare workers providing services in such a remote area with limited resources," said the Chinese doctor. The annual camp is organized by China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), which is developing the nearby Kingfisher oil project. Hu Weijie, acting president of CNOOC Uganda Limited, said the initiative reflects the company's long-term commitment to the health and well-being of local residents. "Since the initiative started, thousands have received critical medical care," Hu said, adding that as CNOOC develops Uganda's oil and gas sector, it remains equally focused on the health and safety of the people. "Health is not only a basic human right, it is also the foundation for strong families, productive communities, and sustainable national growth," he said. Public health cooperation is a key part of the 10 partnership actions announced at the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, said Fan Xuecheng, minister counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Uganda. "China pledged to help build more hospitals across Africa, continue sending medical teams, enhance joint disease prevention and control, and expand access to essential medicines and medical training," Fan said. "This represents not only China's commitment to Africa's health sector but our belief in building a shared future where development and dignity go hand in hand." He said that Chinese medical teams have provided consultations to hundreds of thousands of people in Uganda since 1983, supported local hospitals, and trained health workers. "In both urban centers and rural communities, Chinese doctors have worked shoulder to shoulder with Ugandan colleagues to improve lives. The team present here today continues this proud tradition, offering not only equipment and care, but also hope, sincerity, and solidarity," Fan said.
The Star
23-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Xi Jinping looks to Africa
During his first term as US president, Donald Trump is remembered for having described African countries in a very derogatory manner. During his current second term in the White House, Trump's legacy has been underscored by much more quagmire – further disregard for global trade treaties and diplomatic relations. Trump has not only squeezed poor and developing nations, through ending American donor funding of good causes in the sphere of health and research, he has punished Africa with stringent trade tariffs – an act of desperation to earn respect. Amid all the Trump madness, Africa is rejoicing at a positive outcome of another quiet revolution is taking place – led by China in its quest to reposition Africa's economy. Chinese President Xi Jinping has recently announced a zero-tariff regime to benefit all 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with the world's second largest economy – a development sending a sobering message to Trump on how best to treat Africa. Presidents Xi and his Republic of Congo counterpart Denis Sassou Nguesso, respectively sent congratulatory letters to the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) - extending warm congratulations to the convening of the meeting. Xi pointed out that since its establishment 25 years ago, the FOCAC has strongly driven the flourishing development of China-Africa cooperation – becoming a model for solidarity and cooperation in the Global South. Xi recalled that in September last year, at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, he and African leaders unanimously agreed to jointly advance modernisation that is just and equitable, open, a win-win and an eco-friendly development. Underpinning Xi's message is putting people first - featuring diversity and inclusiveness. This, said Xi, was based on peace and security - taking 10 partnership actions, steering China-Africa relations into a new stage of building an all-weather China-Africa community, with a shared future for the new era. The concerted efforts of both sides, with the implementation of the outcomes of the Summit, having already yielded several encouraging results. Much more is awaited. The two sides have also reached a consensus on organising the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges in 2026, with Xi having expressed the belief that this would inject new vitality into China-Africa friendly cooperation. In his congratulatory letter, Sassou Nguesso said that since the convening of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, Africa-China strategic and practical cooperation, has yielded fruitful results. The Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators has coincided with the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the FOCAC. Sassou Nguesso pledged to make all-out efforts and work unwaveringly with Xi to make greater progress in building an Africa-China community, with a shared future – enhancing the well-being of people on both sides. As the African co-chair of the FOCAC, the Republic of the Congo has pledged to work with China and other Global South countries, strengthening: cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. Jointly building a multipolar world - free from unilateralism and protectionism. Ushering a new era of universally beneficial and inclusive globalization. 'We agree that the rise and growth of the Global South, represents the trend of the times and the future of development. China and Africa are both important members of and staunch forces in the Global South. We call on all countries, especially countries in the Global South, to work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. We commend the initiative of jointly building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era for its positive significance in safeguarding solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and defending multilateralism,' read part of the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South. Added the declaration: We agree that the frequent occurrence of unilateralism, protectionism and economic, bullying has created severe difficulties for the economic and social development and the improvement of livelihood in African countries and other developing countries. This is a pressing challenge that members of the Global South including China and African countries must address.' Nguesso said. This is commendable indeed – a lesson for Trump and his allies, on building lasting cooperation, healthy trade relations and forging world peace.
IOL News
23-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Xi Jinping looks to Africa
During his first term as US president, Donald Trump is remembered for having described African countries in a very derogatory manner. During his current second term in the White House, Trump's legacy has been underscored by much more quagmire – further disregard for global trade treaties and diplomatic relations. Trump has not only squeezed poor and developing nations, through ending American donor funding of good causes in the sphere of health and research, he has punished Africa with stringent trade tariffs – an act of desperation to earn respect. Amid all the Trump madness, Africa is rejoicing at a positive outcome of another quiet revolution is taking place – led by China in its quest to reposition Africa's economy. Chinese President Xi Jinping has recently announced a zero-tariff regime to benefit all 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with the world's second largest economy – a development sending a sobering message to Trump on how best to treat Africa. Presidents Xi and his Republic of Congo counterpart Denis Sassou Nguesso, respectively sent congratulatory letters to the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) - extending warm congratulations to the convening of the meeting. Xi pointed out that since its establishment 25 years ago, the FOCAC has strongly driven the flourishing development of China-Africa cooperation – becoming a model for solidarity and cooperation in the Global South. Xi recalled that in September last year, at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, he and African leaders unanimously agreed to jointly advance modernisation that is just and equitable, open, a win-win and an eco-friendly development. Underpinning Xi's message is putting people first - featuring diversity and inclusiveness. This, said Xi, was based on peace and security - taking 10 partnership actions, steering China-Africa relations into a new stage of building an all-weather China-Africa community, with a shared future for the new era. The concerted efforts of both sides, with the implementation of the outcomes of the Summit, having already yielded several encouraging results. Much more is awaited. The two sides have also reached a consensus on organising the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges in 2026, with Xi having expressed the belief that this would inject new vitality into China-Africa friendly cooperation. In his congratulatory letter, Sassou Nguesso said that since the convening of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, Africa-China strategic and practical cooperation, has yielded fruitful results. The Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators has coincided with the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the FOCAC. Sassou Nguesso pledged to make all-out efforts and work unwaveringly with Xi to make greater progress in building an Africa-China community, with a shared future – enhancing the well-being of people on both sides. As the African co-chair of the FOCAC, the Republic of the Congo has pledged to work with China and other Global South countries, strengthening: cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. Jointly building a multipolar world - free from unilateralism and protectionism. Ushering a new era of universally beneficial and inclusive globalization. 'We agree that the rise and growth of the Global South, represents the trend of the times and the future of development. China and Africa are both important members of and staunch forces in the Global South. We call on all countries, especially countries in the Global South, to work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. We commend the initiative of jointly building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era for its positive significance in safeguarding solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and defending multilateralism,' read part of the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South. Added the declaration: We agree that the frequent occurrence of unilateralism, protectionism and economic, bullying has created severe difficulties for the economic and social development and the improvement of livelihood in African countries and other developing countries. This is a pressing challenge that members of the Global South including China and African countries must address.' Nguesso said. This is commendable indeed – a lesson for Trump and his allies, on building lasting cooperation, healthy trade relations and forging world peace.
