By Abu Bakarr Kargbo in Beijing
At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held in Beijing, top officials from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) highlighted the deepening economic relationship between China and African countries. The summit underscored the significant progress made in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable development across the continent.
Lin Honghong, Deputy Director General of CCPIT’s Department of International Relations, praised the long-standing friendship and strategic guidance that have driven successful collaboration between China and Africa. Lin reported a remarkable increase in foreign direct investment from China to Africa, which reached $40 billion in 2023. Additionally, Chinese companies have created over one million jobs in Africa, cementing China’s role as the continent’s largest development partner and employer.
During the press conference, Lin reaffirmed CCPIT’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation with African counterparts and advancing trade sessions to boost economic exchanges. The emphasis on increasing trade volumes and expanding commercial interactions highlights the shared goal of nurturing a thriving trade relationship and driving economic growth on both sides.
Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role of FOCAC in strengthening ties between China and African nations. Zhang highlighted the collaborative efforts towards achieving win-win outcomes and fostering common prosperity. He stressed the importance of quality trade promotion and partnership for sustainable development.
Zhang also noted the significance of the upcoming FOCAC Summit, which will provide a platform for leaders to engage in in-depth discussions on economic cooperation and development initiatives. He reiterated China’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the previous CPC session and enhancing trade cooperation, exploring new partnership avenues, and working towards a shared future with Africa.
The summit agenda includes discussions on promoting and integrating supply chains and developing industries. China and Africa will explore opportunities for deepening collaboration and advancing mutual interests.
A notable highlight of the summit is the Entrepreneurs Conference scheduled for September 6. Twelve entrepreneurs from China and Africa will gather to exchange insights, experiences, and development prospects. With a turnout of one thousand participants exceeding expectations, the conference is set to facilitate meaningful dialogue and strengthen business ties between the two regions.
The summit’s inclusive nature is further underscored by the participation of heads of states, major companies, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Through robust engagement and dialogue, the China-Africa community aims to elevate trade cooperation, foster innovation, and drive economic growth across sectors.
Sun Xiao, CCPIT Spokesperson, highlighted the strides made in clean energy and development projects undertaken with African partners. CCPIT remains committed to exploring tailored development paths aligned with Africa’s needs and strengthening cooperation in clean energy initiatives under the FOCAC framework.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing marks a pivotal moment for China and Africa to deepen economic ties, foster innovation, and pursue sustainable development. With a focus on inclusive growth, partnership building, and mutual prosperity, the summit sets the stage for enhanced collaboration and shared successes, marking a new chapter in the dynamic China-Africa relationship.
