Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, held a welcome banquet at the Great Hall of the People for the guests who are in Beijing to attend the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the largest diplomatic event hosted by China in years.
The summit, drawing the attendance of over 50 African leaders and the UN secretary-general, runs from Sept. 4 to 6.
Addressing the banquet, Xi said he has been to Africa 10 times.
Xi’s Remarks:
- Xi praised the China-Africa partnership as a “stellar example” of international cooperation.
- He emphasized the long-standing traditional friendship between the two regions, stating it has remained strong and resilient despite global changes.
- Xi highlighted joint infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, schools, hospitals, and industrial parks, which have positively impacted many lives.
- The partnership thrives on win-win cooperation and has strengthened the voice of the Global South.
- Xi expressed confidence in the shared modernization goals of the 2.8 billion Chinese and African people, predicting even greater achievements in the future.
President Faye’s Response:
- Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, co-chair of FOCAC, expressed gratitude for China’s hospitality.
- Faye lauded China’s achievements under Xi’s leadership and its role in fostering global peace and development.
- He reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with China, deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership, and safeguarding shared interests.
Dignitaries Present: Senior Chinese officials, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, and Li Xi, attended the event.Cultural Performance: The banquet concluded with an artistic performance titled “Joining Hands for a Brighter Future.”
