Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee plans to visit Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Tunisia, and Togo from January 13 to January 18, according to Mao Ning, spokesperson for the ministry.
Mao said the tour is intended as an opportunity to deepen China-Africa relations.
He said this year will mark another very important period in the history of China-Africa diplomacy.
“This is the 34th consecutive year that Africa has been the destination of Chinese foreign ministers’ annual first overseas visit.
“Wang’s visit to the four African countries will be the first time in 34 years that the Chinese foreign minister will make Africa his overseas destination at the start of the year.
“At the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue last year, President Xi Jinping made three proposals to support Africa’s industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, and talent development, which were well-received by Africa.
“This year, FOCAC will meet again. Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire are all China’s friendly cooperation partners.
“The purpose of the foreign minister’s visit is to implement the follow-ups to the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue and compare notes with the African side on the 2024 FOCAC.
“The visit is also to carry forward the traditional China-Africa friendship and consolidate the momentum of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation,” the ministry said.