China and South Africa unveiled a new cooperation initiative during the G20 Summit in Johannesburg aimed at accelerating Africa’s modernization and sustainable development. The plan builds on commitments made at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing, where China outlined ten partnership actions to support African growth. The initiative, jointly drafted with African partners, seeks to attract international investment while addressing Africa’s unique development needs.
Zhao Wenfei, Minister Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, emphasized that modernization should benefit all nations, not just a select few, citing China’s own development experience as a model. The initiative focuses on shared prosperity, social and cultural advancement, environmental sustainability, and peaceful development. A central component is green infrastructure and green mining. Lin Feng, director general of International Trade and Economic Affairs at China’s Ministry of Commerce, noted that low-carbon development in Africa’s mineral sector could stimulate high-quality growth and provide new opportunities across the continent. The initiative identifies seven key areas for international cooperation to promote sustainable development and equitable benefits.
The plan has received backing from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan highlighted the impact of Chinese investment in Africa, including solar-powered electricity in rural South Africa and battery storage for vaccine refrigeration in Ethiopia. While the rollout details remain pending, the initiative underscores strengthened ties between China, South Africa, and the broader African continent, signaling a renewed focus on collaborative development and sustainable modernization.
