From 1991 to Today: The Significance of the Chinese Foreign Minister’s Annual Africa Tour

Chad's Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah (R) meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi (L) at the Ministry of Foreign affairs in N'Djamena on January 8, 2025. Joris Bolomey / AFP

For 35 consecutive years, even during the COVID pandemic, Chinese diplomacy has upheld the tradition of dedicating its first annual diplomatic trip to Africa.

This unwavering commitment to Africa is unparalleled by any other country on the UN Security Council, in the OECD, or elsewhere. It reflects a deliberate effort to maintain consistent engagement with the continent and underscores the importance that China places on its relationship with Africa— so much so that this practice has become a cornerstone of its diplomatic strategy.

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by Christian Geraud Neema Byamungu

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