China, African nations, and Arab states must work together to contribute Global South wisdom in facing an increasingly volatile world, experts said at a seminar on Wednesday.
The event, organized by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the China Institute of International Studies, was held in Beijing to mark the 70th anniversary of both China-Africa and China-Arab ties.
Over the past seven decades, China-Africa and China-Arab ties have expanded far beyond trade and infrastructure, with scholars highlighting the growing role of development cooperation.
"Today, the Global South has reached a new crossroads. Facing the uncertain world, China, African nations, and Arab countries can join hands to better contribute the wisdom of Global South countries," said Liu Hongwu, dean of the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University.
Experts emphasized that the historical solidarity underpinning these ties remains essential as international uncertainty grows.
"There are two key words to describe the outcomes of China-Arab cooperation: solidarity and unity. When we established diplomatic relations 70 years ago, unity was indeed evident. Today, as the world enters a period of turbulence, we still need to work together for modernization and maintain solidarity among Asia and Africa," said Wang Guangda, secretary-general of the China-Arab Research Center on Reform and Development.
As the world grapples with uncertainty, experts said that both China-Africa and China-Arab cooperation stand as models for South-South collaboration.
"I believe we are on the right track. The relation(ship) is going to be stronger more and more," said Jasem Alnajem, Kuwait's ambassador to China.
Expert also said that increased market access, expanded cultural exchanges, and deeper strategic cooperation could open new opportunities.
After 70 years of establishment, China-Africa and China-Arab ties are better positioned to build a higher-level community with a shared future, which, experts said, will bring fresh wisdom and strength to the broader pursuit of world peace and development.
Seminar held to celebrate 70th anniversary of China-Africa, China-Arab ties
