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Obasanjo hails China-Africa partnership, urges stronger cooperation for global peace, development
Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has emphasized the importance of China as a key economic partner for Africa, highlighting the transformative impact of their collaboration on the continent’s development.
Speaking in Beijing during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), Obasanjo praised China’s contributions to Africa in areas such as infrastructure, technology transfer, and personnel exchanges.
As a representative of the InterAction Council, a global organization of former Presidents and Heads of Government, Obasanjo commended the 70-year China-Africa partnership and its role in advancing the continent’s growth.
He called for even deeper cooperation, noting that enhanced collaboration would promote not only African development but also global peace and prosperity.
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In a statement from his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo lauded President Xi Jinping for his commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation.
“Your leadership has not only elevated China’s global standing but has also contributed significantly to global peace and stability,” Obasanjo said.
Reflecting on the evolution of China-Africa relations, Obasanjo underscored that China had become Africa’s largest bilateral trading partner over the past two decades, facilitating infrastructure advancements and technological innovation across the continent.
He described this partnership as a model of successful people-to-people diplomacy, particularly valuable as African nations strive to achieve sustainable growth.
Obasanjo also drew attention to China’s monumental achievement of lifting over 800 million people out of poverty in just 40 years, calling it an inspiration for Africa’s own fight against poverty.
“China’s success demonstrates what is possible when leaders are dedicated to improving the lives of their people. Africa looks forward to continuing this fruitful friendship to further its development goals,” he added.
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Obasanjo expressed deep appreciation for being invited to celebrate the CPAFFC’s 70th anniversary, stressing that both the InterAction Council and the CPAFFC share a vision of promoting global peace, development, and cooperation.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to strengthening exchanges and fostering understanding between nations to support global stability.
This celebration not only marks a milestone in Sino-African relations but also signals a continued partnership that both sides hope will yield more growth and peaceful collaboration in the years to come.