In a major stride towards bridging the digital divide, the Chinese mainland and African countries have unveiled the China-Africa Action Plan for Digital Cooperation and Development during the recent China-Africa Digital Cooperation Forum on Monday. This ambitious plan aims to foster robust collaboration in the digital sector, propelling both regions towards a more connected and technologically advanced future.
Recognizing the pivotal role of digital development in modernizing economies, the participating nations are committed to leveraging technology for inclusive growth and sustainable development. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the overarching goals of the China-Africa Cooperation Vision 2035, envisioning a thriving digital Africa as a key driver for global progress.
🌐 The action plan emphasizes seizing the opportunities presented by the digital era, enhancing digital cooperation, and advancing modernization through digitization. By doing so, China and African countries aim to build a high-level community with a shared future, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.
The collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in bridging the digital divide, ensuring that individuals worldwide can access and benefit from cutting-edge digital technologies.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Digital Policy Cooperation: Strengthening policy exchanges to implement the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union Agenda 2063. Activities include policy alignment, mutual learning, and creating a conducive environment for business growth.
Digital Infrastructure Cooperation: Collaborating on building accessible and sustainable digital infrastructure, including next-gen mobile communications, satellite communications, data centers, and cloud computing to enhance connectivity and inclusiveness.
Digital Innovation Cooperation: Advancing emerging technologies such as AI, 5G/6G, and quantum communications. Establishing joint AI centers and supporting startups through incubation, investment, and empowering youth and women in tech.
Digital Transformation Cooperation: Promoting the adoption of digital technologies across various sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Implementing ten digital transformation projects over the next three years to boost high-quality cooperation.
Digital Security Cooperation: Balancing development with security by collaborating on cybersecurity, data protection, and personal information safety. Exploring the creation of a joint digital security laboratory.
Digital Capability Cooperation: Enhancing digital skills through training programs, research collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at training at least 1,000 digital talents over the next three years.
🤝 To ensure the success and efficiency of these cooperative efforts, the Chinese mainland and African countries will build collaborative partnerships involving governments, businesses, academia, and financial institutions. This inclusive approach aims to facilitate comprehensive digital cooperation and development.
Looking ahead, the action plan welcomes more participants to join and enrich the cooperation dimensions, sharing valuable development opportunities and fostering a united digital future.
