African leaders at the recently-concluded 39th African Union (AU) Summit hailed China's landmark zero-tariff policy for 53 partner nations as a "win-win situation" that could accelerate continental trade and development.
Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the summit, in which Xi announced that China will fully implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China starting from May 1, 2026. He also highlighted efforts to upgrade the "green channel" for African exports.
The announcement drew strong endorsements from senior AU representatives, who underscored China's role as Africa's largest investor and a critical trade partner.
"China is a very important trading partner to Africa and also a huge investor in Africa, especially critical areas like infrastructure. So we welcome that and I think this will also hopefully encourage other partners of Africa to also introduce zero tariff for African products," said Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, spokesperson for the AU Commission Chairperson.
Other voices at the summit stressed the broader significance of China's engagement with Africa, pointing to its role in infrastructure and the Belt and Road Initiative.
"The Chinese relationship with Africa is very strong and the Chinese presence in the continent on all levels, especially with the Belt and Road Initiative, with the infrastructure development of Africa is making a difference to us on the continent. Having the zero tariff is like a great stride because now if we see what China has announced, together with the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), that will make a huge difference for the African development, and this is what we're talking about. It's a win-win situation," said Ambassador Namira Negm, director of the African Migration Observatory.
The 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) opened Saturday at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.
During the two-day summit, African leaders focused their discussions on pressing issues including peace and security challenges on the continent, the AU's institutional reforms, participation in the G20, and implementation of Agenda 2063 at an accelerated pace.
In a closing press conference, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reiterated a zero-tolerance stance against unconstitutional changes of government and emphasized the AU's commitment to its flagship initiative, "Silencing the Guns."
AU Summit hails China's landmark zero-tariff policy as "win-win" for Africa
"Happy Spring Festival" celebrations have unfolded in many countries, with vibrant cultural events sharing the festive spirit of the Spring Festival and introducing elements of Chinese culture to the global audience.
The Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, falls on Feb 17 this year. It is one of the most important holidays in China, celebrated with family reunions and wishes for good luck in the coming year.
A celebration was held at the National Centre for Culture and Arts (NCCA) in Amman, Jordan, where young singers and artists from China and Jordan joined hands on stage to perform classic works that blend the cultural elements of both countries.
"China showcases its culture and fine traditions to the world by holding Spring Festival celebrations every year. This year's activities in Jordan are building a cultural bridge, which not only promotes cultural exchanges between Jordan and China but also enhances cultural mutual learning between China and Arab countries," said Zeina Barhoum, a Jordanian opera singer.
In Addis Ababa,the 2026 Ethiopia Chinese New Year Bazaar was held recently to celebrate the upcoming Spring Festival.
Nega Wedajo, deputy commissioner of Ethiopia's Oromia Tourism Commission, elaborated on the importance of the horse in Ethiopian society, emphasizing the similarity between Ethiopian and Chinese cultures.
"This year is the [Year of the Horse]. In Oromia culture the horse means everything, so it's a sign of a victory. I would like to wish a happy and successful year for all our Chinese brothers," said Wedajo.
The Chinese Embassy in Myanmar hosted Chinese New Year celebrations at the National Theater in Yangon on Thursday and Friday. More than 2,000 people, including Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia and Myanmar's Prime Minister U Nyo Saw, attended the event.
During the event, the venue's plaza turned into a bustling Chinese cultural fair, with booths offering traditional Chinese foods, handicrafts, customs, and interactive experiences such as horse drawing.
During his visit to the China Media Group's booth, U Nyo Saw learned about the 2026 Spring Festival Gala and its creative offerings.
The gala, set to be aired on Chinese New Year's Eve on Feb 16 this year, will combine traditional Chinese culture with modern stagecraft, as well as cross-cultural performances featuring international artists. Commonly known as "Chunwan" in Chinese, the gala has been broadcast live every Chinese New Year's Eve since 1983 and has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most-watched annual television program on the planet.
He also extended his warm greetings to Chinese people worldwide.
"On the occasion of the Spring Festival, I wish the Chinese people around the world a happy and healthy new year," said U Nyo Saw.
Meanwhile, the 2026 "Happy Spring Festival" concert was recently held at the National Theatre of Panama. The event attracted over 1,300 guests, including Chinese Ambassador to Panama Xu Xueyuan, as well as representatives from various sectors of Panamanian society, Chinese enterprises and institutions in Panama, media personnel, Chinese teachers, overseas students, and members of the Chinese community.
Artists from China and Panama performed together, initiating a musical dialogue between tradition and modernity, East and West, and presenting a cultural feast for the audience.
Festive celebrations held worldwide as Chinese New Year approaches
