Wang Yi Holds Talks With Benin's Foreign Minister Bakari

On March 28, 2024, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held talks with Benin's Foreign Minister Bakari in Beijing.

Wang Yi said that President Talon successfully visited China in September last year, and the two heads of state jointly announced the establishment of a strategic partnership between China and Belgium, leading bilateral relations to a new stage. Please convey Xi Jinping President's warm greetings and best wishes to President Talon.

Wang Yi stated that the relationship between China and Benin has maintained a high level of development, with mutual trust in politics and solid progress in cooperation in various fields. China attaches great importance to China Belgium relations and is willing to use the important consensus of the two heads of state as a guide to promote greater development of bilateral relations. China will continue to firmly support Benin in pursuing a development path that is in line with its national conditions, and be a sincere friend and reliable partner for Benin to explore and promote its own modernization. Both sides should vigorously expand practical cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, culture, and human resources, and welcome Benin's active participation in implementing global development initiatives. China and Belgium are both members of the United Nations Human Rights Council. We are happy to see Belgium play a greater role in international and regional issues, jointly safeguarding the interests of Africa and developing countries, and promoting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Bakari conveyed President Talon's good wishes to President Xi Jinping , stating that during President Talon's visit to China, the two heads of state had fruitful and in-depth exchanges. China is a great country and an important partner for Benin to achieve national development. The Belgian side is willing to work together with the Chinese side to implement the important consensus of the leaders of the two countries, promote common values, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote greater development of the Belgian China relationship. Beifang firmly adheres to the One China principle. Benin highly appreciates the efforts made by the Chinese government to promote a ceasefire and end the war in Gaza, especially the crucial role played by the Security Council in passing the ceasefire resolution. We are willing to strengthen coordination with China in the United Nations Human Rights Council, jointly safeguard the interests of developing countries, and promote the healthy development of international human rights.

Both sides exchanged views on China Africa cooperation. Wang Yi stated that this year is a major year for China Africa relations, and the new summit of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation will be held in Beijing. China is willing to strengthen the docking of development strategies with African countries, conduct exchanges in governance, explore the path to modernization, and jointly discuss plans for China Africa cooperation. Bakari stated that the new summit of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation is a major event this year, and Benin will actively participate and play its due role in promoting greater development of Africa China cooperation.