On September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping of China met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki during the Beijing Summit of FOCAC. They reaffirmed over 30 years of diplomatic relations, emphasizing cooperation in agriculture and infrastructure. Commitment to mutual support and a focus on regional stability were key themes of their discussion. They anticipated signing bilateral agreements to enhance trade and development initiatives.
On September 2, 2024, President Xi Jinping of China engaged in a meeting with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki during his visit to the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The meeting took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing and underscored the more than 30 years of constructive diplomatic relations between China and Eritrea. Xi Jinping remarked on Eritrea’s commitment to its independent foreign policy and the importance of mutual support in their bilateral relations.
Xi Jinping emphasized the need for both nations to strengthen their camaraderie, noting that China aims to be a good partner in mutually beneficial endeavors. He expressed China’s willingness to enhance political trust, cooperate in various sectors including energy and agriculture, and support Eritrea’s industrialization efforts. China’s leadership asserted the necessity of leveraging platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC for furthering cooperation.
During the meeting, President Isaias Afwerki reflected on his long-standing relationship with China, highlighting his first visit 57 years ago. He acknowledged China’s crucial role in global governance reform and reinforced Eritrea’s commitment to the one-China policy. Afwerki reiterated the significance of Eritrea-China cooperation in combatting colonialism and promoting equality within the international community, while aspiring to deepen collaboration in energy, infrastructure, and maritime affairs.
The summit is expected to culminate in the signing of bilateral cooperation agreements in sectors including agriculture and media, demonstrating the ongoing commitment between the two countries. It is anticipated that the FOCAC summit will yield significant outcomes that will aid African nations in achieving stability and development.
In summary, the meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Isaias Afwerki solidified the enduring relationship between China and Eritrea, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. Their discussions highlighted the determination to enhance collaboration in various sectors and the shared vision for promoting stability and development in Africa. The anticipated cooperation agreements from the summit will further strengthen this partnership, marking a significant step forward in their bilateral relations.
Original Source: www.fmprc.gov.cn
