Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is on a four-country tour in Africa. He has laid out a framework for China-Africa cooperation in a speech at the headquarters of the African union . Speaking on Monday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Premier Li proposed four principles for deepening cooperation and underlined six primary areas of cooperation.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang delivers a speech at African union (AU) Conference center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, May 5, 2014. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang delivers a speech at African union (AU) Conference Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, May 5, 2014. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
Premier Li spoke highly of Africa’s role in maintaining world peace and stability. He said Africa has become one pole of the world in three dimensions-- an important player on the stage of world politics, a new contributor to the global economic growth and a colourful part of human civilization.
In order to further deepen bilateral ties, Li proposed four guiding principles -- treating each other sincerely and equally; consolidating solidarity and mutual trust; jointly pursuing inclusive development and promoting innovation in bilateral practical cooperation.
"China and Africa have always respected each other’s core interests and major concerns. China has spoken out in support of Africa’s just course and legitimate positions. Africa has supported China in safeguarding its major interests. We have strengthened collaboration and coordination in international and regional affairs. And this has effectively upheld the common interests of all developing countries." Li said.
China-Africa trade hit 210 billion US dollars in 2013. China has been Africa’s biggest trading partner for the past five years. Li set the target for bilateral trade volume to top 400 billion US dollars by 2020, and China’s direct investment in Africa at 100 billion dollars.
Noting that China and Africa increasing share common interests and to boost a stronger foundation for cooperation, Li proposed that the two sides open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
"The history and reality have both told us that Africa could seek opportunities in China’s development, and China can benefit from Africa’s development." Li said.
The premier identified six areas of focus-- industry, finance, poverty reduction, ecological protection, people-to-people exchanges, and peace and security - for the two sides to cooperate.
Premier Li also highlighted the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as an important platform to deepen bilateral ties.
The visit is the Premier’s first to Africa since he took office in 2013.
