Raphael Oni
The 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges was launched on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the historic ties between China and Africa. The event, held at the African Union (AU) headquarters, brought together senior officials, diplomats, and representatives from various sectors, who called for deepening dialogue and cooperation between the two civilizations.
In a congratulatory letter read by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of mutual learning among civilizations in advancing China-Africa modernization. Xi outlined the direction and principles of China-Africa people-to-people and cultural cooperation, highlighting the need for an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.
Wang Yi stressed that people-to-people exchanges form the foundation of China-Africa friendship, while mutual learning among civilizations drives cooperation. He called on both sides to prioritize development, put people first, and uphold mutual learning and exchanges.
African leaders echoed these sentiments, expressing confidence that the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges will open a new chapter in Africa-China relations. They pledged to deepen cooperation with China in culture, education, tourism, and other fields, and to continue advancing Africa-China relations.
The event highlighted the long-standing tradition of China-Africa cooperation, with African leaders praising China’s remarkable development achievements and expressing gratitude for its support and assistance to Africa. As the Global South rises, China and Africa are poised to play a greater role in shaping the international order and promoting world peace.
The launch of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges marks a new era of cooperation, with both sides committed to deepening dialogue, enhancing exchanges, and strengthening bonds between their peoples.
