Beijing, China – Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with African nations to ensure the success of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit. The summit, scheduled to take place from September 4 to September 5 in Beijing, is expected to strengthen political trust and economic cooperation between China and African countries.

Wang Yi emphasized that a successful summit would significantly contribute to Africa’s development and revitalization. “China is ready to deepen political trust with Africa, with the objective of elevating cooperation between the two continents,” Wang said. He also highlighted China’s readiness to collaborate with South Africa to enhance strategic communication and political trust, thereby strengthening bilateral relations.

“China and South Africa, along with other African nations, are significant developing countries and key members of the Global South. They share mutual trust, support each other, and stand together in defending international justice,” Wang added.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola echoed Wang’s sentiments, emphasizing the robust political trust and substantial economic and trade growth between China and South Africa. Lamola noted that China had become South Africa’s largest trading partner, reflecting the deepening ties between the two nations.

Lamola also reiterated South Africa’s respect for the one-China policy and expressed support for China’s sovereignty and stance on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Xizang, indicating a shared commitment to common political and strategic objectives.

The upcoming FOCAC summit is expected to further consolidate the partnership between China and African countries, focusing on economic development, strategic cooperation, and mutual support within the international community.