China Focus: China's ties with African countries strengthen – Xinhua

CHENGDU, July 25 (Xinhua) – Afoluke Olufuwa looks closely at an exhibition panel showing air routes between Chengdu and African cities, while she participates in a forum in Chengdu , capital of Sichuan Province.

Olufuwa, who works with the Policy Planning Division of the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was one of 88 representatives from 30 African countries and 50 organizations to participate in the Fifth China-Africa People's Forum, which was held Monday to Tuesday. More than 100 representatives from China were also present.

"The forum is an important opportunity to get to know China better and look for new opportunities for cooperation," Olufuwa said. "For example, we should learn from China because it ensures that anti-corruption efforts are effective."

Economic cooperation between China and African countries has developed rapidly. According to China Customs, between January and May this year, trade between China and African countries amounted to $ 81.9 billion, up 17.7 percent annually.

"The most popular Chinese products are clothing, furniture, jewelery and synthetic hair. Rural people particularly appreciate the solar lamps made in China, because many parts of the country are still not electrified and can be used to recharge the batteries. phones and small machines, "said Selma Theresa Philemon, first parliamentary secretary of the Standing Committee for Gender Equality Social Development and Family Affairs in the Namibian Parliament

Cooperation between China and the United States Africa has gone beyond the economy and trade to encompass larger regions. "China has helped us a lot in education, infrastructure and health." "I hope China will continue to help in manufacturing and to add value to our products, especially in mining and fishing. "

Nicholas Ekow De-Heer, direct ur programs at the Institute of Fiscal Studies of Ghana. "Africa needs China for the construction of industrial parks, agricultural modernization and infrastructure," he said.

The forum also saw the launch of the Friendship and Partnership Program between China and Africa, which runs from 2018 to 2020. It includes vocational training, humanitarian aid, donations, staff and cultural exchanges.

"Guided by a win-win spirit, mutual respect and trust, the ties between China and Africa will strengthen," said Mr. De-Heer.