China proposed expanding collaboration, exchanges, and people-to-people contact with countries in Africa to promote development in both directions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported.

Beijing.- According to a note from the entity, Foreign Minister Wang Yi made this statement during the eighth meeting of coordinators of the bilateral cooperation forum (FOCAC), which was attended by representatives of several countries on the continent.

The diplomat advocated sticking to the principles of sincerity, real results, friendship, and goodwill, as well as strengthening unity, mutual assistance, and the defense of multilateralism.

He assured that Beijing will continue its active role in the construction of infrastructure in the continent, increase imports and give greater support to the growth of sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and emerging industries.

He promised to help Africa to overcome the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, facilitating the return of students to China and an increase in exchanges in the academic sector, the media, non-governmental organizations, women, and youths.

However, he called for more commitment to openness and regional peace and called to oppose external interference and attempts to create conflicts in Africa.

The official statement specified that the African interlocutors ratified their support for the One China principle, non-interference in internal affairs, and the protection of China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. (PL)