Why China’s Wang Yi Made Africa His First Stop in 2026 – And What Was Really Discussed

In an unmistakable signal that Africa remains central to Beijing’s foreign policy, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi chose Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho as his first overseas destinations in 2026 – continuing a 36-year diplomatic tradition of kicking off each new year in Africa. What emerged from this week-long tour (January 7–12) is far more than ceremonial goodwill; it’s a comprehensive reaffirmation of China’s partnership with the continent and a blueprint for expanded cooperation through people’s exchanges, trade, and strategic collaboration.

From the launch of the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to high-level strategic dialogues and bilateral talks, Wang’s itinerary blended symbolic continuity with practical policy advances, underscoring Beijing’s intent not just to sustain but to deepen China-Africa ties against a shifting global backdrop.