Latest news with #MinisterialMeetingofCoordinators
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.
IOL News
18-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Zero Tariffs, Infinite Trust: How China's Bold Trade Move Redefines Africa's Future
Discover how China's groundbreaking zero-tariff policy for African nations not only fosters economic growth but also strengthens diplomatic ties, paving the way for a prosperous future. Pictured is South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Image: Presidency By Michael Andisile Mayalo In a time when global economic uncertainty and geopolitical friction dominate headlines, China and Africa are offering a refreshing alternative: partnership, solidarity, and shared prosperity. The latest chapter in this evolving friendship came with an announcement that is as historic as it is strategic-China will grant zero-tariff treatment to 100% of taxable products from all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. This remarkable initiative, announced during the June 2025 Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), is more than just a trade policy—it is a powerful expression of trust, mutual respect, and forward-looking cooperation. Chinese President Xi Jinping's congratulatory letter to the meeting set the tone for this moment of renewed commitment. In his message, he emphasised that China and Africa are 'good friends, good partners, and good brothers,' bound by shared aspirations and common goals. He praised the success of the ten cooperation actions agreed upon during the 2024 Beijing Summit of FOCAC and reaffirmed China's pledge to accelerate the building of a China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era. President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo echoed these sentiments, affirming that the deep friendship between Africa and China is rooted in solidarity, mutual benefit, and a clear-eyed vision of long-term progress. Their messages were not ceremonial-they were statements of intent backed by concrete action. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ A Win-Win Solution for Africa's Economic Aspirations The zero-tariff policy is especially significant because it comes at a time when African nations are striving to boost industrial capacity, diversify exports, and secure greater integration into global markets. Removing tariffs on all African exports to China opens an enormous door of opportunity for value-added products, manufactured goods, and agricultural items to reach one of the world's largest and most dynamic consumer bases. As noted in the recent China Daily piece, African leaders increasingly see China as a preferred and reliable development partner. This policy confirms why: it places no political conditions, imposes no pressure, and offers real, market-driven solutions to real development needs. China's approach is empowering. Rather than offering short-term aid, it is building sustainable economic linkages. Countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Senegal, which are developing robust manufacturing sectors, will now find it easier to export competitively to China. But perhaps even more crucially, least-developed countries across the continent stand to benefit the most, as their exports gain immediate and unrestricted access. The Changsha Declaration: A Shared Voice for the Global South This bold trade step was matched diplomatically by the release of the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South. Signed by representatives from all 53 African nations, the African Union, and China, the declaration reaffirms the commitment to multilateralism and cooperation in an increasingly fragmented world. The declaration calls for a stronger collective voice in international affairs, and explicitly states opposition to unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. It aligns perfectly with the zero-tariff decision-not as an isolated gesture, but as part of a broader effort to support inclusive globalization where developing nations play a central role. By supporting each other's core interests and respecting each other's development paths, China and Africa are demonstrating what modern diplomacy and fair trade can look like when rooted in equality. A Track Record of Delivery and Trust This is not the first time China has placed Africa at the centre of its global strategy. For 16 consecutive years, China has been Africa's largest trading partner. From the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to massive infrastructure projects, industrial parks, and clean energy investment, China's presence has been transformative across the continent. The zero-tariff initiative builds on these foundations. It gives African producers, farmers, and manufacturers the confidence to invest, expand, and compete. It also complements China's long-standing commitment to capacity-building, including thousands of scholarships, technical exchanges, and digital technology partnerships. This is not just trade-it is economic empowerment. At the June 11, 2025, press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian reaffirmed that China will continue to strengthen economic cooperation with Africa, prioritise the implementation of FOCAC outcomes, and ensure that African voices are heard in global affairs. He stated that China is ready to work with African friends to "deepen practical cooperation and deliver more tangible results to the African people." That promise is already being kept. A Friendship That Sets a Global Example What sets this China-Africa partnership apart is its consistency. It is not driven by short-term headlines or geopolitical competition-it is built on long-term alignment and mutual respect. China sees Africa not just as a market or resource base, but as a strategic partner and friend. There is an authenticity to the relationship that resonates with African nations. China does not dictate political systems or demand policy changes. Instead, it listens, collaborates, and builds. That is why, time and again, African leaders praise China's development model and diplomatic approach. And the public feels it too. African perceptions of China remain overwhelmingly positive, driven by real-life impacts-new roads, better hospitals, growing exports, and increased educational access. This kind of people-centered development is where diplomacy meets everyday life. Looking Ahead: Prosperity Through Partnership As we look to the future, the zero-tariff initiative is a gateway to deeper economic integration, industrialization, and mutual prosperity. It sends a clear message: China believes in Africa's potential, and is backing that belief with action. By eliminating barriers and encouraging African exports, China is proving that global trade can be fair, inclusive, and truly win-win. In an era defined by challenges, the China-Africa relationship is a beacon of what cooperation should look like-visionary, respectful, and full of promise. * Michael Andisile Mayalo is an independent commentator and writer ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL, Independent Media or The African.
See - Sada Elbalad
12-06-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Xi Jinping and Congolese President Send Congratulatory Messages to FOCAC Ministerial Meeting
Nada Mustafa On June 11, 2025, President Xi Jinping and President of the Republic of the Congo 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), and extended warm congratulations to the convening of the meeting. Xi Jinping pointed out that since its establishment 25 years ago, the FOCAC has strongly driven the flourishing development of China-Africa cooperation and become a model for solidarity and cooperation in the Global South. Xi Jinping recalled that in September last year, at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, he and African leaders unanimously agreed to jointly advance modernization that is just and equitable, open and win-win and eco-friendly, puts the people first, features diversity and inclusiveness, and is underpinned by peace and security, and to take ten 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. Thanks to the concerted efforts of both sides, the implementation of the outcomes of the Summit has already yielded a number of encouraging early harvests. The two sides have also reached a consensus on organizing the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges in 2026. Xi Jinping expressed the belief that this will inject new vitality into China-Africa friendly cooperation. Xi Jinping emphasized that the current international landscape is marked by intertwined changes and turbulence. China remains committed to creating new opportunities for the world through the new achievements in Chinese modernization, and providing new momentum for Africa and other Global South partners through China's big market. Through the entry into agreements on economic partnership for shared development, China implements zero-tariff measures of granting 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines, and facilitates greater access for exports from Africa's least developed countries to China. China is ready to work with the African side to further implement the ten partnership actions, strengthen cooperation in key areas such as green industries, e-commerce and payment, science and technology, and artificial intelligence, deepen cooperation in such fields as security, finance, and the rule of law, and jointly promote high-quality development of China-Africa cooperation. Xi Jinping pointed out that openness and cooperation are the right path forward, and mutual benefit is the shared aspiration of the people. Joint efforts by China and Africa to advance modernization will strongly promote solidarity and cooperation in the Global South and open up brighter prospects for the cause of peace and development around the world. He expressed hope that both sides will continue to advance the implementation of the outcomes of the Summit with solid efforts, carefully plan the future development of the FOCAC, and work hand in hand to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, contributing the strength of China and Africa to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. In his congratulatory letter, President Denis Sassou Nguesso said that since the convening of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, Africa-China strategic and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results. This Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators coincides with the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the FOCAC. He pledged to make all-out efforts and work unwaveringly with President Xi Jinping to make greater progress in building an Africa-China community with a shared future and to enhance the well-being of the people on both sides. As the African co-chair of the FOCAC, the Republic of the Congo is will work with China and other Global South countries to strengthen cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, jointly build a multipolar world free from unilateralism and protectionism, and usher in a new era of universally beneficial and inclusive globalization. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
