The “China in Springtime: Sharing Opportunities with the World Global Dialogue” event, held in Addis Ababa on March 11, underscored China’s commitment to fostering a shared global future with Africa. With high-profile personalities, scholars and media circles in attendance, the event reinforced China’s expanding role in Africa’s economic transformation through modernization, infrastructure development, and strategic cooperation.
Speaking at the seminar, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai highlighted China’s willingness to share its development experience with African nations. “China has pursued high quality modernization that prioritizes sustainable development, technological progress, and inclusive growth. We are ready to share these experiences with Ethiopia and the rest of Africa to help build a brighter future,” said Ambassador Chen.
Ethiopia’s State Minister of Planning and Development, Bereket Fesehatsion, echoed his sentiments, emphasizing how Ethiopia-China cooperation is driving economic growth. “The partnership between Ethiopia and China is a testament to the strength of South-South cooperation. From industrial development to infrastructure expansion, China’s involvement has been instrumental in shaping our economic trajectory,” Fesehatsion noted.
China’s involvement in Africa’s infrastructure sector has been transformative. Ethiopia, for instance, has benefited significantly from Chinese investments in major projects like the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, a key trade route that connects Ethiopia to global markets.
According to Fekadu Tsega, Director General of Ethiopia’s Policy Studies Institute, China’s development model provides a blueprint for Africa’s economic success. “China has shown that industrialization, innovation, and strategic planning can lift millions out of poverty. African countries can learn from this approach to achieve sustainable development,” Tsega said.
At the heart of China’s engagement with Africa is its vision for a Global Community with a Shared future and FOCAC has been a major driver of this vision, providing a framework for trade, investment, and diplomatic collaboration.
As Ethiopia and other African nations continue to deepen their ties with China, questions remain about the long-term impact of this partnership. While critics warn of potential over reliance on Chinese loans, supporters argue that the collaboration is an opportunity for Africa to achieve industrialization and global competitiveness.
“Africa should see China as a strategic partner, not just an investor. This relationship must be built on mutual benefits, knowledge-sharing, and long-term economic planning,” Tsega concluded.
As China continues to position itself as a key development partner for Africa, the discussions in Addis Ababa signal a future where Africa could leverage Chinese expertise to drive its own modernization agenda.
