BEIJING, China: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held separate meetings in Beijing with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola and Senegal’s Foreign Minister Yacine Fall.
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations and preparing for the upcoming 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Wang Yi emphasized that FOCAC, established 24 years ago, has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development and has become a key symbol of South-South cooperation. He expressed China’s commitment to making the summit a major success, aimed at reinforcing solidarity and fostering a new era of cooperation between China and Africa.
Wang reiterated China’s support for African nations in their pursuit of development and the creation of a multipolar world that promotes equitable and inclusive economic globalization. He underscored China’s willingness to collaborate closely with African countries to strengthen ties and advance shared interests.
In his meeting with Wang, South African Minister Ronald Lamola highlighted the upgraded relationship between South Africa and China, now a comprehensive strategic partnership. Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s adherence to the one-China policy and its support for China’s global initiatives. He expressed eagerness to work with China to enhance cooperation among Global South countries.
Senegal’s Foreign Minister Yacine Fall praised the exemplary nature of the Senegal-China relationship, noting mutual respect between the nations. Fall announced that Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye would visit China during the FOCAC summit, marking his first trip outside Africa. This visit is expected to further deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between Senegal and China.
The meetings reflect China’s ongoing efforts to solidify its relationships with key African partners and advance its strategic objectives in the region.
