African Union Commission Chairperson Highlights Strengthening Africa-China Cooperation at FOCAC

At the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat emphasized the importance of strengthening Africa-China cooperation and building a shared future. He called for both sides to work together to address global challenges, promote sustainable development, and build a more just and equitable international order.

Mahamat praised the long-standing friendship between Africa and China, and advocated for further deepening of economic, political, and cultural ties between the two regions. "Africa and China must continue to reinforce their cooperation and construct a common future," he stated.

The African Union Commission Chairperson also highlighted the African Union's Agenda 2063, which functions as the blueprint and master plan for transforming Africa into a global powerhouse through inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda was appointed to lead the AU institutional reforms process, with the goal of implementing programs that have the highest impact on Africa's growth and development.

Why this matters: The strengthening of Africa-China cooperation has significant implications for the economic and geopolitical landscape of both regions. As Africa seeks to achieve its development goals under Agenda 2063, China's support and partnership will play a vital role in realizing this vision.

Mahamat also addressed the need for Africa to maintain its own agency and not become caught in the confrontation of divergent political interests among global powers. He warned that Africa must resist all forms of instrumentalization by external powers in the 'zero-sum game' where the gains of others would translate into losses for Africa.

While acknowledging the successes and progress made by the African Union, such as independence, victory against apartheid, economic and scientific advancements, and Africa's growing international role, Mahamat also recognized the challenges the continent faces, including democratic decline, insecurity, terrorism, and climate change.

Mahamat's remarks at the FOCAC underscore the African Union's commitment to strengthening Africa-China cooperation while safeguarding Africa's interests and agency on the global stage. As the AU continues to implement its institutional reforms and Agenda 2063, the partnership with China is poised to play a significant role in shaping Africa's future development and international standing.

Key Takeaways

• AU chair Mahamat emphasized strengthening Africa-China cooperation and shared future.
• Mahamat praised long-standing friendship and called for deeper economic, political, cultural ties.
• AU's Agenda 2063 aims to transform Africa into a global powerhouse through sustainable development.
• Africa must maintain agency and resist instrumentalization by external powers, Mahamat warned.
• Africa-China partnership is vital for realizing Africa's development goals under Agenda 2063.