CHINA’S Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged G20 nations to listen to Africa and prioritise its concerns, calling for stronger global support for the continent’s peace and development. His remarks were made on Thursday during the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, the first such summit hosted by an African city.
‘We must listen to what Africa has to say, take Africa’s concerns seriously, support Africa’s actions, and work for peace and development in Africa,’ Wang stated, according to an official statement released by Beijing on Friday.
South Africa leads G20 presidency in 2025
South Africa, the only African nation in the G20, holds the bloc’s presidency from December 2024 to November 2025. The country has positioned itself as a bridge between the developing world and major global economies.
In 2023, the AU was officially added to the G20, marking a historic step toward increasing Africa’s representation in global economic discussions. Wang described this as part of an ‘African moment’ that should leave a lasting mark on this year’s G20 leadership.
China backs African solutions to African challenges
Beijing has long maintained a policy of non-interference in Africa’s internal affairs, and Wang reiterated China’s stance against external interventions.
‘China firmly supports African people in independently resolving African problems,’ he said, emphasising that international efforts should empower African-led solutions rather than impose foreign agendas.
China has expanded its influence across Africa through trade, infrastructure projects, and financial investments, positioning itself as one of the continent’s key economic partners. Wang’s comments reinforce Beijing’s ongoing strategy of strengthening ties with African nations while challenging Western influence in the region.
As South Africa leads the G20 this year, discussions on Africa’s role in global governance are expected to take centre stage, with China actively backing initiatives that enhance Africa’s economic and political influence.
