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In a diplomatic power move, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Djiboutian leader Ismail Omar Guelleh just powered up their countries’ relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing. The upgrade comes as both nations celebrate 45 years of diplomatic ties .
President Xi praised Djibouti’s commitment to cooperation, highlighting iconic projects like:
The Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway – Africa’s first electrified cross-border line
A new international free trade zone
Africa’s pioneering Luban Workshop for technical training
“China stands ready to share its development experience,” Xi stated, emphasizing South-South cooperation in driving economic growth and cultural exchanges .
Guelleh fired back with gratitude for China’s support: “From infrastructure to education, we’re building more than ports and rails – we’re constructing a bridge between continents.” The leaders also agreed to collaborate on regional security and talent development .
With Djibouti being home to China’s first overseas military base, this partnership signals deeper geopolitical chess moves in the Horn of Africa .
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The Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway – Africa’s first electrified cross-border line
A new international free trade zone
Africa’s pioneering Luban Workshop for technical training
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