Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China's unwavering partnership with Africa during his New Year visit to Ethiopia this week – continuing a 36-year diplomatic tradition that's stronger than ever in 2026. ✨
At the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Wang highlighted this year's milestone: '2026 marks 70 years since China and African nations first established diplomatic relations', comparing the bond to family ties strengthened through shared struggles for independence and modern development. 👨👩👧👦
'Just like visiting relatives during Lunar New Year, China always comes to Africa first,' Wang told AU leaders, emphasizing that Beijing remains Africa's first responder in crises and first partner in development projects. 💼🌱
The veteran diplomat stressed that 2.8 billion people across China and Africa – representing 35% of humanity – are now collaborating to:
🤝 Boost South-South cooperation
🚀 Accelerate modernization efforts
⚖️ Create a fairer global system
With developing nations facing economic headwinds, Wang's visit signals China's commitment to maintaining stable policies – a message resonating with young entrepreneurs and students tracking Asia-Africa opportunities. 📈🎓
