China plans to ease Africa’s debt burden, reopen businesses soon

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2020 (FBC) –China has announced plans to ease Africa’s debt burden and reopen businesses soon to sustain the continent’s economic momentum.

The announcement was made by Wang Yi, Chinese state councilor and foreign minister, during a press conference held last Sunday regarding China-Africa relations.

He said “We will work with other G20 members to implement the debt service suspension initiative to ease Africa’s debt burden.”

He further said his country will work out ways to move ahead with major ongoing cooperation projects and support African countries in reopening businesses soon to sustain Africa’s economic momentum.

Wang stated that China was also considering further bilateral support for African countries under the greatest strain to help Africans through this difficult time.

“We will continue to stand by Africa as it fights the virus. We will send anti-epidemic assistance to African and other developing countries as a matter of priority. We are considering sending more medical expert teams to the continent,” he said.

Wang also appreciated messages of solidarity during the COVID-19 pandemic from African leaders.

“In the battle against COVID-19, China and Africa have again stood by each other. Over 50 African leaders have expressed solidarity and support in phone calls or public statements,” he said.

“This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC),” he said, adding “China’s relations with Africa have stood the test of time and continue to flourish.

China will continue to deliver on the health initiative announced at the FOCAC Beijing Summit and accelerate construction of the Africa CDC headquarters, and help boost public health capacity in African nations, he said.