Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has hailed China as a crucial economic partner for Africa, emphasizing the significant role the Asian nation has played in the continent’s development.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo highlighted China’s contribution to advancing infrastructure, technology transfer, and cultural exchange across Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the InterAction Council, a group of former presidents and heads of government, Obasanjo made his remarks during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and officials of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC). The meeting was held in Beijing to commemorate the association’s 70th anniversary.
Obasanjo praised President Xi for his commitment to global cooperation and multilateralism, noting that China’s leadership has fostered global peace and stability. “I deeply appreciate President Xi Jinping for his unwavering support for global cooperation and multilateralism. His leadership has provided significant momentum for peace worldwide and laid a solid foundation for China’s ongoing rise and development,” he said.
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Reflecting on the strong ties between China and Africa, Obasanjo pointed out how Sino-African relations have blossomed over the years, particularly in the last two decades, making China Africa’s largest trading partner. He stressed that China’s engagement has not only improved infrastructure but also helped share knowledge and skills with African nations.
“China is an important economic partner for Africa. Our collaboration has advanced infrastructure and facilitated technology transfer, offering Africa both opportunities for shared prosperity and inspiration for growth,” Obasanjo noted. He praised China’s success in lifting over 800 million people out of poverty, calling it a model for Africa as the continent seeks to improve the lives of its people.
Obasanjo also reflected on the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in fostering global cooperation, describing it as a powerful tool beyond formal diplomatic efforts. He emphasized the shared goals between the InterAction Council and CPAFFC, both of which are committed to promoting global peace and development.
In his concluding remarks, Obasanjo reiterated that the InterAction Council would continue to collaborate with CPAFFC to deepen exchanges and understanding between nations, contributing to global peace and stronger international partnerships.
