China’s top diplomat is keeping a 35-year tradition alive by making Africa his first overseas stop of 2024. Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Namibia, the Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Nigeria from January 5-11, reinforcing ties that Beijing calls 'the foundation of China’s foreign policy.'
🔍 Why it matters: This annual diplomatic ritual – likened by analysts to a New Year’s resolution for China-Africa relations – comes as Beijing seeks to expand cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and green energy. The trip follows up on commitments from the 2023 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit.
🇨🇳🤝🇳🇦🇨🇬🇹🇩🇳🇬 ‘These four countries represent diverse regions and economic profiles,’ says intl. relations expert Li Ming (fictionalized for narrative). ‘From Nigeria’s tech hubs to Congo’s mineral wealth, China’s playing multidimensional chess.’
💡 Zoom out: With 80+% of African nations having signed onto China’s Belt and Road Initiative, this tour could shape everything from lithium mining contracts to 5G network deals. Bonus fact: China has been Africa’s largest trading partner since 2009!
