By: Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram
Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad
Beijing, September 6, 2024 – The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit was held in Beijing from September 4 to 6. The event brought together leaders from China and African nations to strengthen ties and promote shared development goals.
A Historic Moment for China-Africa Relations:
The 2024 FOCAC Summit marked a renewed commitment to cooperation. It aimed to improve the well-being of African nations, many of which continue to face the legacy of colonialism and underdevelopment. The summit was hailed as the beginning of a new chapter in global South-South relations.
China and African nations share a history of resisting foreign dominance. Unlike colonial powers, China has never invaded or occupied African territory. This shared struggle has created a strong bond based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.
Rejecting Western Hegemony and Promoting Multilateralism:
African nations have long endured inequality and economic dependence fostered by Western imperialism. China has supported these nations in breaking free from that cycle. At the summit, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting multilateralism and empowering the Global South.
Both sides agreed to support one another in international forums. Together, they aim to create a more just, balanced, and inclusive world order.
President Xi Jinping’s Vision for a Shared Future:
Chinese President Xi Jinping described the current China-Africa relationship as being at its historical best. He introduced ten major cooperation plans across various sectors, including:
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Governance and mutual learning: 1,000 African parliamentarians will visit China.
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Education and research: 25 China-Africa study centers will be established.
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Digital development: Partnerships in technology and SME support will be strengthened.
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Agriculture and food security: China pledged 1 billion yuan in aid and will send 500 agricultural experts.
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Green development: 30 clean energy projects will be launched to support Africa’s energy transition.
Infrastructure and the Belt and Road Initiative:
A key highlight of the summit was the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This massive infrastructure project has helped African countries build roads, railways, power plants, and industrial parks. China’s “build roads to get rich” philosophy has addressed critical bottlenecks in Africa’s growth.
Going forward, China plans to complement large infrastructure with community-focused projects that directly improve local livelihoods. These include healthcare, education, and green energy initiatives.
Shared Commitment to Economic Modernization:
President Xi emphasized joint modernization as essential for global progress. China supports African nations in pursuing development models that respect their sovereignty, culture, and unique governance systems.
This partnership is seen as a counterbalance to traditional Western aid models, offering African countries more agency in shaping their future.
The Path Ahead:
With 52 African countries and the African Union aligned with China through FOCAC and BRI, the path forward is one of strengthened ties and shared prosperity. The 2024 Summit laid a strong foundation for future collaboration, built on respect, cooperation, and mutual benefit.
Together, China and Africa are shaping a global narrative centered on equity, dignity, and sustainable growth.
