Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China hopes African countries will board China’s “development express” and work together to achieve the goal of modernization.
Speaking at a regular press briefing held today, Mao commented on Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s recently concluded visit to Africa.
Mao noted that Wang Yi’s choice of Africa as the destination of his first overseas visit of the year reflects a 36-year tradition, underscoring the deep friendship between the Chinese and African peoples.
She stated that during the visit, Wang introduced to African counterparts the Proposals on the 15th Five-Year Plan, which were adopted at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. Mao emphasized that the plan not only charts China’s future development path but also offers a “list of opportunities” for countries around the world, including those in Africa.
Mao further remarked that China will continue to serve as an engine of global economic growth and as a catalyst for Africa’s development and revitalization. She noted that one of the issues most frequently highlighted by African counterparts was the policy of “zero tariffs.” According to Mao, this policy represents a hallmark of China–Africa cooperation in the new era and a significant example of China’s proactive efforts to expand unilateral opening-up.
Reiterating China’s willingness to assume greater international responsibilities and its firm commitment to high-level opening-up, Mao stated that China’s vast market presents significant opportunities for Africa. She invited African countries to join China’s rapidly advancing development trajectory and to work hand in hand with China to achieve modernization together.