Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday emphasized China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Tanzania, aiming to set a model for China-Africa cooperation in the Global South. Speaking during a meeting with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Xi highlighted the significance of this year marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Xi stated that China and Tanzania share mutual respect and trust on their path to national revitalization, collaborating closely towards modernization. He outlined plans to deepen their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, enhancing exchanges in state governance and building political and strategic mutual trust. This partnership aims to deliver greater benefits to the people of both countries through mutually beneficial and practical cooperation.
During the summit, Xi expressed China’s willingness to advance the revitalization of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) railway project, aiming to improve the rail-sea intermodal transport network in East Africa. This initiative aligns with the recently published Dar es Salaam Consensus, which showcases the shared development vision of Global South countries.
Tanzanian President Hassan echoed these sentiments, describing China as a trustworthy and indispensable partner. She expressed optimism that the summit would bolster friendly cooperation, driving Africa’s industrialization and agricultural modernization. Hassan called for the expansion of practical cooperation and the active advancement of Belt and Road initiatives to bring tangible benefits to the Tanzanian people.
The summit will also witness the signing of several bilateral cooperation agreements between China and Tanzania, focusing on areas such as connectivity and agricultural trade, further solidifying their partnership.
