Xi Jinping highlighted the importance of the African Union as a symbol of unity and an essential pillar for international cooperation, noting that the relationship between both sides has strengthened over the years, while highlighting the close coordination in international and regional issues.
“I am pleased to see that the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention, built with the assistance of China, is now operational, contributing to public health in Africa and the well-being of its people,” said the President of China, who expressed his desire to take the 2024 FOCAC summit as an opportunity to deepen cooperation in various fields and take the construction of the China-Africa community with a shared future to a new level.
In response,Moussa Faki Mahamat thanked China for its constant support to Africa in its fight against colonialism, imperialism and racism. “For more than half a century, China has provided valuable assistance to African countries in areas such as infrastructure, health, energy, industry and security. In addition, China was the first country to support the inclusion of the African Union in the G20, which is highly appreciated by Africa,” he highlighted.
FOCAC was established in 2000 as a platform to strengthen relations between both parties and since its creation it was the scene of important announcements by Beijing regarding the financing of projects in Africa.
The Forum meetings were held in Beijing (2000, 2006, 2012 and 2018), Addis Ababa (2003), Sharm El-Sheik (2009), and Johannesburg (2015), each giving rise to a three-year Action Plan between China and African countries.
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