Obasanjo: Africa will continue to seek China’s partnership for economic development

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says Africa will continue to seek China’s friendship and partnership for economic development.

Obasanjo spoke on behalf of the InterAction Council during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), at the 70th anniversary of the association in Beijing on Friday.

According to a statement by Kehinde Akinyemi, his media assistant, Obasanjo said Chinese cooperation with Africa has not only advanced infrastructural development but also facilitated the transfer of technology and the exchange of personnel.

“The development is already showcasing it as a successful example of people-to-people diplomacy,” he said.

“China and Africa share a deep foundation of cooperation and exchange in areas such as economy, culture, and education.

“China is an important economic partner for Africa, and our cooperation has not only advanced infrastructure development but also facilitated the transfer of technology and the exchange of personnel.

“Sino-African relations have deepened over the years, particularly in the last twenty years during which China has become Africa’s largest bilateral trading partner. 

“For us in Africa, China offers not only an opportunity for shared prosperity but also inspiration for our growth.

“China’s successful lifting of over 800 million people out of poverty in forty years is a shining example of what is possible when leaders set their minds on changing the fortunes of their people for the better. 

“Africa will continue to seek China’s friendship and partnership as we aspire to lift our people out of poverty.”

‘COMMITTED TO PROMOTING PEACE, DEVELOPMENT’

Obasanjo said his colleagues from the InterAction Council were honoured to be invited to Beijing to join in the seven-decade anniversary of the group, which is committed to promoting global peace, development, and cooperation.

“As former heads of state and government leaders, we understand the importance of people-to-people relations,” Obasanjo added. 

“It is not merely an extension of official diplomacy but a vital force for fostering international cooperation.”

Obasanjo also said the InterAction Council aligns closely with CPAFFC. 

“We are both committed to promoting global peace, development, and cooperation,” he said.

“As former heads of state and government leaders, we understand the importance of people-to-people relations. 

“It is not merely an extension of official diplomacy but a vital force for fostering international cooperation.

“The InterAction Council will continue to work hand in hand with CPAFFC to promote deeper exchanges and understanding among peoples, contributing to global peace and cooperation.”

He also appreciated Jinping for his steadfast support for global cooperation and multilateralism.

“Your leadership has not only laid a solid foundation for China’s continual rise and development but has also provided significant momentum for global peace and stability,” he added.

At the 2024 forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, on September 4, President Bola Tinubu said Africa-China trade has reached an estimated $280 billion.