Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, speaks on China-Africa relations

With Aidoghie Paulinus | [email protected] | 

At a press conference on March 8, 2026, Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, spoke on China-Africa relations.

Below is an excerpt from the press conference as captured by the News Agency of Nigeria.

News Agency of Nigeria: This year marks the 70th anniversary of the beginning of diplomatic relations between China and African countries. This year is also designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. In this year of special significance, how do you expect China-Africa relations to further grow and deliver for the two peoples?

Wang Yi: For 70 years, China-Africa friendship has stood the test of changing international circumstances and shown strong vitality. For 36 years, China’s foreign minister has kicked off the year with a visit to Africa, a tradition that has been honored rain or shine. This consistency reflects the spirit and commitment of China’s diplomacy. During my visit to Ethiopia early this year, people fondly recalled the touching scenes of Premier Zhou Enlai’s visit to Africa. Then in Tanzania, people still cherished the memory of Chinese assistance in building the Tazara Railway. They remember the young Chinese engineers and workers who laid down their lives for it and never made it home. It’s no exaggeration to say that China-Africa friendship has been passed down from generation to generation—forged heart to heart, and built with sweat and blood.

In this new era, President Xi Jinping still deeply values the bond with Africa. He emphasizes sincerity, real results, amity and good faith in working with Africa—always reminding us of our friendship and shared interests with the continent. This approach has helped to take China-Africa cooperation to new heights. We’re just two months into 2026 and already President Xi Jinping has sent three letters or messages to our African brothers: a letter of congratulation on the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, a reply to veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, and a congratulatory message to the African Union Summit for the 14th year running. It’s clear from these messages that China’s top leader wants the torch of China-Africa friendship to be passed from generation to generation, and Africa can count on China’s steadfast support for its development and revitalization.

This year, China-Africa relations will see many new developments, three of which I’d like to draw your attention to.

First, fresh steps in building the China-Africa community with a shared future. We will host multiple African leaders to strengthen mutual support as all-weather partners and write a new chapter of our shared journey.

Second, full implementation of zero-tariff access for 100 percent of African imports as from May 1. As part of China’s commitment to high-standard opening up, we are removing tariffs completely to boost trade, multiply benefits for the people, and help Africa access the enormous opportunities of the Chinese market.

Third, the nearly 600 exciting events to take place under the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. We are always ready to work with our African brothers and sisters to draw inspiration from our civilizational heritages, forge a stronger bond between our people, and carry forward our friendship for many, many generations to come.