China has been a steadfast ally in Africa's journey towards modernization and poverty reduction, according to a recent statement by a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson.
At a press conference in Beijing, spokesperson Lin Jian highlighted China's ongoing commitment to Africa through various initiatives aimed at boosting food self-sufficiency, reducing poverty, and enhancing the quality of life for millions.
\"Ending poverty is a shared mission for humanity and a common aspiration for the African people,\" Lin emphasized. He detailed the extensive efforts under the Program for Strengthening Cooperation on Poverty Reduction between China and the African Union, facilitated by the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The results? Truly remarkable!
China has launched and implemented 47 poverty reduction and agricultural projects across Africa, training nearly 9,000 agricultural experts and sharing over 300 advanced technologies. These initiatives have benefited more than 1 million smallholders, empowering them to boost their incomes.
A shining example is China's Juncao technology, which has helped hundreds of thousands increase their earnings. Additionally, hybrid rice varieties have significantly boosted rice yields in numerous African countries from an average of 2 tonnes to an impressive 7.5 tonnes per hectare. Chinese experts are also establishing demonstration villages for rice cultivation, turning the dream of \"every mouth has food and every pocket has money\" into reality.
Beyond agriculture, Chinese companies have built agricultural parks and processing plants, adding value to local products and opening \"green lanes\" for African goods to enter China’s market. Under the \"100 Companies in 1,000 Villages\" initiative, 320 corporate social responsibility projects have positively impacted over 10,000 villages and communities.
Moreover, China’s investments have spurred industrialization, with projects like Nigeria's Lekki Free Trade Zone and the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone attracting foreign investment and fostering industry clusters that promote \"made in Africa\" globally.
Employment opportunities have also surged thanks to 17 Luban Workshops established in 15 African countries, enhancing local job markets and economic stability.
Looking forward, Lin Jian affirmed China's readiness to continue partnering with Africa at the upcoming 2024 FOCAC Summit, aiming to further advance poverty alleviation and build a brighter future for the African people.
(With input from Xinhua)
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China has always staunchly supported Africa's poverty alleviation
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