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Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the importance of China as a crucial economic ally for Africa, highlighting its contributions to infrastructure development, technology transfer, and personnel exchange. Speaking on behalf of the InterAction Council during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Obasanjo urged for continued progress in Sino-African relations to promote global peace. The meeting marked the 70th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC).
In a statement released by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo lauded China’s steadfast support for global cooperation. “I want to express my deep appreciation to President Xi Jinping for your steadfast support for global cooperation and multilateralism. Your leadership has not only laid a solid foundation for China’s continual rise and development but has also provided significant momentum for global peace and stability,” Obasanjo said.
On China-Africa relations, the former president described the partnership as a “successful example of people-to-people diplomacy,” noting that it has grown significantly over the past two decades, with China becoming Africa’s largest bilateral trading partner. “China is an important economic partner for Africa, and our cooperation has not only advanced infrastructure development but also facilitated the transfer of technology and the exchange of personnel,” Obasanjo remarked.
He also commended China’s success in lifting over 800 million people out of poverty within four decades, calling it an inspiration for African leaders as they work towards similar goals on the continent.
Obasanjo concluded by reaffirming the shared mission of the InterAction Council and CPAFFC to promote global peace, development, and cooperation through strengthened people-to-people relations. “The InterAction Council will continue to work hand in hand with CPAFFC to promote deeper exchanges and understanding among peoples, contributing to global peace and cooperation,” he said.
