China’s Wang Yi begins Africa tour with push for a rules based international order
China’s foreign minister has opened his annual New Year tour of Africa with a high profile appeal to uphold a global order rooted in respect for international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The visit comes as Beijing and the African Union jointly expressed concern over recent events in Venezuela, signalling a united stance with partners in the Global South.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Ethiopia to begin his tour, which includes stops in several key African capitals. At the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Wang and the African Union’s chair called for a rules based order in international affairs. Their joint statement emphasised the importance of respecting the sovereignty of all nations and resolving disputes peacefully, a message framed in response to recent US military action in Venezuela that drew criticism from both sides.
The joint appeal reflects a broader shift in diplomatic language among China and partners on the African continent, reinforcing shared objections to unilateral interventions and actions seen as undermining established norms. Speaking on behalf of both sides, officials underscored that sovereignty and territorial integrity must remain cornerstones of global stability, aligning with long standing principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
Wang’s tour, which also includes planned engagements in countries such as Somalia, Tanzania and Lesotho, follows decades of deepening engagement between China and Africa. It coincides with the launch of the China Africa Year of People to People Exchanges, an initiative aimed at expanding cultural, educational and social ties between Chinese and African societies. Over the coming days, the foreign minister is expected to build on these themes, promoting cooperation in development, infrastructure, trade and other sectors.
China’s diplomatic emphasis on a rules based order resonates with many African states that have experienced historical challenges to their sovereignty and territorial integrity. African leaders have welcomed China’s approach, framing it as part of a South South cooperation model that prioritises mutual respect and non interference. In their statement with Wang, African representatives reaffirmed these principles and reinforced the need for multilateral solutions to global challenges.
The context for the joint call is a complex global environment in which major powers are competing for influence and strategic partnerships. Wang’s visit highlights China’s effort to position itself as a leading voice defending what it describes as equitable international norms, a narrative that contrasts with criticism of unilateral actions by Western powers. Observers note that these diplomatic efforts are part of China’s broader foreign policy strategy to strengthen ties with the Global South and reshape international discourse around development and governance.
At the same time, the tour will give Wang opportunities to deepen bilateral ties with individual African governments. China remains a major economic partner to the continent, with extensive investment in infrastructure, trade agreements and development projects that have expanded significantly over the last two decades. These ties provide a foundation for cooperation on global governance issues as well as regional concerns such as economic growth, stability and public health.
While details of each engagement will unfold over the coming week, the early focus on a rules based international order sets the tone for China’s diplomatic mission in Africa this year. It highlights shared priorities with African partners and reflects Beijing’s continued effort to build influence through a blend of political, economic and cultural engagement across the continent.
