China-Africa friendship has shown strong vitality over the past seven decades despite changing global landscape and will see new highlights in 2026, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference in Beijing on Sunday.
Wang made the remarks at the press conference on China's foreign policy and external relations on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC).
For 70 years, China-Africa friendship has stood the test of changing international circumstances and shown strong vitality. China's foreign minister has started every year with the first visit to Africa for 36 years, which has become a diplomatic tradition that has been honored rain or shine. This consistency reflects the spirit and commitment of China's diplomacy, he said.
Wang said that during his visit to Ethiopia early this year, people fondly recalled the touching scenes of Premier Zhou Enlai's visit to Africa. Then in Tanzania, people still cherished the memory of Chinese assistance in building the Tazara Railway and many young Chinese engineers and workers who laid down their lives and rested in that land away from home forever.
He said it is no exaggeration that China-Africa friendship has been passed down from generation to generation, forged heart to heart, and built with sweat and blood.
In this new era, President Xi Jinping highly values the bond with Africa. He emphasizes sincerity, real results, amity and good faith in working with Africa, always reminding China's friendship and shared interests with the continent. This approach has helped to take China-Africa cooperation to new heights, Wang said.
He said that just two months into 2026, President Xi had already sent three letters or messages to African brothers: a letter of congratulation on the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, a reply to veterans of Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, and a congratulatory message to the African Union Summit for the 14th year running.
Wang said it is clear from these messages that China's top leader wants the torch of China-Africa friendship to be passed from generation to generation, and Africa can count on China's steadfast support for its development and revitalization.
"This year, China-Africa relations will see many new developments. I would suggest focusing on three aspects: First, fresh steps in building the China-Africa community with a shared future. We will host multiple African leaders to strengthen mutual support as all-weather partners and write a new chapter of our shared journey," he said.
"Second, full implementation of zero-tariff access for 100 percent of African imports as from May 1. As part of China's commitment to high-standard opening up, we are removing tariffs completely to boost trade, multiply benefits for the people, and help Africa access the enormous opportunities of the Chinese market. Third, the nearly 600 fascinating events to take place under the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. We are always ready to work with our African brothers and sisters to draw inspiration from our civilizational heritages, forge a stronger bond between our people, and carry forward our friendship for many, many generations to come," Wang said.
China-Africa friendship shows strong vitality: FM
