Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday criticized the role of Western powers in Africa’s development as he addressed leaders and representatives from some 50 African nations at a forum that aims to bolster Beijing’s relationships on the continent.
“The Western modernization process has brought deep suffering to many developing countries,” Xi said in the keynote speech at the opening ceremony of Forum on China–Africa Cooperation in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Xi painted China as the preferred development partner of choice for Africa, pledging 360 billion yuan ($50 billion) in loans and investments on the continent over the next three years.
The major boost in financing from the world’s second-largest economy comes after Beijing slowed its investments in Africa during the coronavirus pandemic.
Xi said that China is ready to work with Africa to foster 10 partnership areas, including military, education and training, trade, agricultural development and renewable energies.
He said all African states that have diplomatic ties with Beijing should have their relationship elevated to “a comprehensive strategic partnership.”
