- As partners, we are not only working to modernise our economies but also to create a world where all nations, regardless of size or power, can thrive together.
- FOCAC has shown us the potential of what can be achieved through genuine cooperation and mutual respect.
Image: BRIAN OTIENO
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit successfully held in Beijing last week is a major event with great significance and far-reaching impact.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and 54 leaders from African countries and the African Union reaffirmed their strong determination to stand together and strengthen cooperation. Over 2.8 billion people from China and Africa are ready for a brand new chapter of friendship and development.
A number of major outcomes were delivered during the Summit. China has entered into strategic partnerships with all 53 African countries having diplomatic ties with China. The characterisation of the overall China-Africa relations was elevated to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. Two important documents, the Beijing Declaration and the Action Plan (2025-2027), were adopted unanimously.
President Xi announced a set of 10 partnership actions designed to deepen China-Africa cooperation in areas such as industrial development, health, agriculture and security, among others.
These initiatives are aligned with the development priorities of African countries, offering solutions that are tailored to the continent’s unique challenges.
Since it was established in 2000, through a series of initiatives, FOCAC has had a transformative impact on Africa. From infrastructure development to education, technology and other areas, China’s support has been pivotal in helping African nations lay the foundations for modernisation.
The enduring ties and fruitful cooperation have benefited hundreds of millions of people from both sides.
As an ambassador, I have been privileged to witness the strength of this relationship first-hand. Over the years, what started as a friendship born out of the liberation movements of African nations has evolved into a strategic partnership that is key to achieving the development aspirations of African countries.
The foundation of this bond lies in trust and mutual respect, driven by the understanding that China and Africa share a common destiny. This was exemplified in President Xi’s remarks, where he emphasised the strength of the partnership, highlighting the deep trust between China and Africa and stressing the mutual benefits of cooperation.
The summit also highlighted the broader implications of China-Africa cooperation. China’s emphasis on inclusivity, environmental sustainability and people-centred development is especially relevant as African countries pursue their development goals, particularly under the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
On the other hand, the importance of FOCAC goes beyond economic development. It is also about building a future where the voices of African nations are heard and respected on the global stage.
As President Xi emphasised, China and Africa share a commitment to fairness, justice and peace. Both sides reject hegemony and support a global order that is more inclusive and just. This commitment to multilateralism and respect for international norms is a core principle that binds China and Africa together.
The relationship between Kenya and China has continued to flourish. During the meeting between President Xi and President William Ruto, President Xi pointed out that China and Kenya have always joined hands and are at the forefront of the Belt and Road cooperation, and completed a number of flagship projects in connectivity, significantly contributing to regional economic and social development and benefiting the two peoples.
President Xi proposed that China and Kenya work together as partners of mutual trust, partners for shared benefit and strategic partners in upholding fairness and justice.
The future of China-Africa relations is bright. As partners, we are not only working to modernise our economies but also to create a world where all nations, regardless of size or power, can thrive together.
FOCAC has shown us the potential of what can be achieved through genuine cooperation and mutual respect. For Kenya and the rest of Africa, the path forward with China is one of shared prosperity, where development is driven by the aspirations of people and where the benefits of modernisation will be shared by all.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya