PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE ENGAGEMENTS TO BOOST RELATIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND AFRICA IN 2026

In a significant diplomatic development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the launching ceremony of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, a move set to deepen ties between China and African nations across cultural, educational, and social sectors.

The official designation of 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges comes as the two sides celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, marking a historic milestone and a renewed commitment to mutual understanding. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the launch, stressing that people-to-people ties and mutual learning among civilizations form the inexhaustible driving force of cooperation and global peace, a message warmly welcomed by African leaders.

At the ceremony, Wang Yi highlighted the depth of cultural and social engagement already achieved between China and Africa, reaffirming that people-to-people exchanges constitute the most solid foundation of their friendship. He pointed to successful initiatives, including 17 Luban Workshops established in 15 African countries, which have trained tens of thousands of professionals, as well as expanded tourism cooperation benefiting more than 30 African nations.

The comprehensive plan for 2026 envisions nearly 600 cultural and exchange activities across both continents. These events, aligned with the theme “Consolidate All-Weather Friendship, Pursue a Shared Dream of Modernisation”, aim to strengthen mutual understanding through youth exchanges, arts and culture festivals, educational partnerships, and tourism promotions, while also facilitating governance and modernisation dialogues.

What readers can expect this year:

• 🌍 Youth and Student Exchanges: Forums and leadership dialogues connecting young African and Chinese talent.
• 🎓 Education and Training Initiatives: Enhanced vocational training programs and partnerships aimed at building skills for the future.
• 🎭 Cultural Showcases: Cross-continental arts, music, and film events spotlighting shared heritage and creativity.
• 🛫 Tourism Boosts: Expanded travel agreements and increased accessibility between China and African destinations.
• 🧠 Think Tanks and Innovation Forums: Joint discussions on governance, technology, and modernisation strategies.

This ground-breaking cooperation year not only strengthens friendship and cultural ties but also aligns with broader efforts to promote development, solidarity, and stability across the Global South. As both China and Africa prepare for an exciting year of exchange and discovery, this initiative stands as a testament to the enduring and evolving China-Africa partnership — one built not just on economic interests but on shared values and people-centred connections.

For more details, read the full announcement here.
👉 Source: Xinhua News