Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended congratulations on the official opening of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening public support for China–Africa friendship.
In a congratulatory letter sent to the opening ceremony on Thursday, President Xi said the initiative reflects a shared consensus between Chinese and African leaders and coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and African countries.
According to Xi, the year-long programme represents “a significant step to further cement public support for China–Africa friendship at a new historical starting point.”
The Chinese leader highlighted the role of cultural exchange and mutual learning in advancing global peace and development.
“Exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations constitute an inexhaustible driving force for the progress of human civilization as well as world peace and development,” Xi said.
He noted that China and Africa, as two ancient civilizations, have enriched each other over centuries, forming the historical and intellectual foundation of their enduring friendship.
President Xi called on both sides to seize the opportunity provided by the Year of People-to-People Exchanges to deepen cooperation beyond diplomacy and economics, with a particular focus on youth engagement.
“Both sides should carry forward traditional friendship, strengthen mutual learning among civilizations, expand people-to-people exchanges, especially among the youth, and deepen exchanges of experience in governance,” he said.
He added that such cooperation would help advance modernization efforts in both China and Africa while strengthening bonds among their combined population of more than 2.8 billion people.
Xi further stressed that enhanced people-to-people ties would contribute to Global South solidarity and collective responses to global challenges.
“By pooling hearts, minds, and strengths, China and Africa can make new contributions to addressing global challenges, promoting the common values of humanity, and building a community with a shared future for mankind,” he stated.
The 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges is expected to feature cultural, educational, youth, media, and governance-related programmes aimed at deepening mutual understanding and long-term cooperation between China and African nations.
Sandra Chukwugekwu
About The Author
