How China has made a mark in Africa

Beijing has adopted an approach of mutual interest, respect and equality without interfering in the affairs of others

In his 1996 speech entitled "Toward a New Historical Step for Sino-African Friendship" at the headquarters of the Organization of African Unity, then Chinese president Jiang Zemin put forward a five-point proposal on developing a long-term and stable relationship between China and Africa for the 21st century. The key components of the proposal were sincere friendship, treating each other on an equal footing, solidarity and cooperation, common development and a future-oriented relationship.

China has faithfully implemented this proposal in Africa. China's aid is not tied to political conditions, nor does it force Africans to do something they do not want, and it does not make empty promises. As we learned from John-Paul Sartre: "We are not what we say, but what we do." So, the reason for Sino-African convergence is what China does.