Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi shakes hands with African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, on January 8, 2026. Photo: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

　　When Africa seems once again to be "forgotten," China comes to the continent of hope and continues to make Africa the starting point of its annual diplomacy, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told media after concluding his Africa visit, continuing a 36-year tradition for Africa to be the destination of the Chinese foreign minister"s first overseas trip of the year.

　　Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said that maintaining this diplomatic tradition for 36 consecutive years reflects the profound friendship of the Chinese people toward African people, as well as a commitment and spirit - When African brothers and sisters are in need, China will always be the first friend to stand by your side, according to a release from the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.

　　The past year has been marked by global turbulence, with Africa facing particular challenges, Wang said, adding that when Africa was hit by the "tariff stick," China announced a "zero-tariff gift" for African countries. When some external forces lectured on and interfered in African affairs, China firmly supported Africa in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and national dignity.

　　Wang"s Africa trip demonstrates China"s consistent emphasis on China-Africa relations no matter how the international situation evolves, experts said, adding that after decades of sustained engagement, China-Africa relations have grown ever deeper.

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