The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), attracting more than 50 African leaders and the UN secretary-general, was held in Beijing from Sept. 4 to 6. Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech titled "Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a Community with a Shared Future".
Xi said that China is ready to work with Africa to implement 10 partnership action plans to advance modernization jointly.
South African journalist, Brian Vikweni Sokutu, shared his understanding after the opening ceremony. He spoke highly of China's achievements in the modernization process, especially in technology and innovation. All countries in Africa should not be left behind and need to learn from one another.
"The western diplomacy has always been that of coming to tell other countries what they need to do and they have to toe the line and always come with a strength attached. With China it's different in that President Xi comes as a partner. He comes as a brother and a comrade to Africa," he said. He also added insights into the differences between Chinese and Western diplomacy towards Africa.
Reporter | Grace, Xachary Tse
Video | Leo
Editor | Steven, Will
