FOCAC Summit: Global progress not a zero-sum game, says Tinubu.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, September 5, at the opening of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), emphasized the importance of global collaboration in achieving shared progress and prosperity.

The president, who attended the summit in Beijing, China, in his capacity as Nigerian President and Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the ECOWAS, highlighted the success of the China-Africa partnership as a model for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

He stressed that cooperation is key to solving global challenges and that China-Africa relations are built on trust, mutual respect, and the pursuit of common goals.

He noted that the China-Africa partnership is driven by a bold collective vision for the future and that by working together both sides can unlock unprecedented levels of growth and development for their nations.

President Tinubu called for the sustenance of the momentum of cooperation and emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue, transparent business practices, and diplomatic conflict resolution in deepening the bond between Africa and China.He noted that the China-Africa partnership is driven by a bold collective vision for the future and that by working together both sides can unlock unprecedented levels of growth and development for their nations.

He expressed optimism that the partnership will continue to benefit both regions for generations to come, driven by a bold collective vision for the future.

“The success of FOCAC and our broader partnership emphasizes the important truth that global progress is not a zero-sum game. By working together joining hands and looking for that win-win solution, we create opportunities for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

“Our joint efforts reinforce a vision for a multipolar world where diverse perspectives are embraced and cooperation is key to solving global challenges.

“At the heart of China-Africa relation is a foundation built on trust, mutual respect, and the pursuit of common goals. As we look to the future, it is crucial that we maintain the momentum. Peaceful dialogue, transparent business practices, and diplomatic conflict resolution remain at the forefront of our efforts.

“These values will ensure that the bond between Africa and China continues to deepen and benefit both regions for the generations yet to come. The partnership is not only about shared history. It is driven by a bold collective vision for the future.

“Together, we join hands by pulling our strength and resources. We can unlock unprecedented levels of growth and development for our nations”, the President said.

He hailed the China-Africa partnership as a testament to the power of mutual respect and cooperation, saying it has transcended continental challenges to become a rich and multifaceted relationship.

President Tinubu praised the partnership for its growth and expansion over the years, spanning trade, investment, and diplomacy.

He congratulated earlier speakers, particularly his “brother and friend”, President Bassirou Faye of Senegal, for their contributions to the partnership.

President Tinubu highlighted the defining moments of the partnership, including China’s consistent commitment to Africa through financial and developmental support, cultural exchanges, and the establishment of the FOCAC in 2000.

He noted that the partnership has stood firm despite global challenges, offering a powerful example of what can be achieved through respect for sovereignty and non-interference.

The President also highlighted the flourishing economic partnership between Africa and China, with trade reaching an estimated $280 billion US, and expressed optimism about the alignment of China’s Belt and Road Initiative with Africa’s infrastructure goals.

“I say throughout our journey, there have been defining moments that have shaped this partnership. China has consistently demonstrated its commitment to Africa, not only through financial and developmental support but also through cultural exchanges that bring our people closer and closer together.

“The establishment of the institute and Chinese cultural centers across Africa exemplifies the depth of our cultural fusion and shared learning. A landmark of our relationship came in the year 2000 with the establishment of the FOCAC. This platform has been pivotal in strengthening our economic ties and reaffirming our commitment to mutual progress.

“Despite the global challenges we face, whether economic or geographical, our partnership has stood firm, resolute, and offering a powerful example of what can be achieved through respect for sovereignty and non-interference.

“One of the highest highlights of this collaboration has been the flourishing economic partnership. Trade between Africa and China has grown exponentially, reaching an estimated $280 billion US.

“These impressive figures speak volumes about the strength of our economic relationship and the expanding integration of our markets. I say China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aligns with Africa’s own infrastructure goals on the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. This offers even a greater promise”, the President said.

President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the Chinese government for its steadfast commitment to the China-Africa partnership, acknowledging the significant impact of the alliance, and describing it as one of the most significant of the current time.

The president emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between both partners to achieve greater heights in the years to come, adding that Africa is in dire need of this partnership and the progress it brings.