The 21st Ambassador Lecture held by CAI

 The China-Africa Institute (CAI) hosted the 21st Ambassador Lecture on February 3, 2026, featuring a keynote speech by Mr. Li Changlin, former Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Morocco. Zhou Gongdai, Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Committee of the CAI, delivered the opening remarks, and Prof. Tian Feng, Vice-President of the CAI presided over the lecture. The event was attended by more than 40 scholars from the institute.Ambassador Li is delivering keynote speechIn his speech titled “The 10th Anniversary of China-Morocco Strategic Partnership: Achievements and Prospects", Ambassador Li Changlin reviewed the longstanding friendship between China and Morocco, that has transcended geographical boundaries. He summarized the achievements of the bilateral cooperation over the past decade since the establishment of the strategic partnership, highlighting the pivotal role of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in advancing China-Morocco relations.Ambassador Li noted that BRI has gained wide recognition from both the Moroccan government and its people. He underlined that Morocco boasts five distinct strengths in cooperation with China under the BRI, namely its strategic geographical location, the stable political and social environment, well-developed infrastructure, a high degree of economic openness, and skilled workforce, all of which have contributed to the fruitful outcomes of China-Morocco collaboration. The Ambassador also shared a positive outlook on the future of China-Morocco relations and offered an in-depth analysis of key areas for further collaboration. Zhou Gongdai is delivering opening remarks Following his speech, Ambassador Li engaged in in-depth discussions with experts and scholars on topics such as the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Morocco and the effective approaches to promote employment in the country. Prof. Tian Feng is making concluding speechProf. Tian Feng noted in her concluding remarks that Ambassador Li, with his extensive diplomatic experience and deep familiarity with Morocco, offered insightful perspectives that have enhanced the scholars’ understanding of China-Morocco cooperation under the BRI, as well as Morocco’s cultural and social landscape. His sharing provides meaningful inspiration for advancing academic research.  A scene of the lecture

The 23rd China Lecture held in Madagascar

At the invitation of the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by its President Ye Hailin, visited Madagascar for academic exchanges from December 9 to 13, 2025.  
On December 10 and 11, 2025, the delegation hosted the 23rd China Lecture under the theme "New Opportunities for China-Africa Cooperation During the 15th Five-Year Plan Period" in Madagascar. They were invited to brief on the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and interpret the significance of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for China-Africa cooperation in the new era. 
The delegation members included Ma Jun, Director of the International Exchanges Division of the CAI, and Deng Yanting, Associate Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Security Studies Division. 

Speakers at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025.




Participants at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025. 



The first session of the event was held at the Chinese Embassy in Madagascar on December 10, 2025. Ji Ping, Chinese Ambassador to Madagascar presided over the lecture. Johnny Rakotoarisoa, President of the Madagascar-China Parliamentary Friendship Group delivered a speech. More than 30 members of the National Assembly of Madagascar attended the lecture.
 
 

The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025. 




The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025 
 
The second session of the lecture was held at the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar on December 11, 2025. The event was presided over by Andry Razakandrainy, Coordinator of the Center, and attended by former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar, Rafaravavitafika Rasata. More than 20 officials and scholars from the center and Ministry of Foreign Affairs participated in the lecture.
In his speech, Professor Ye Hailin provided an in-depth interpretation of the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and elaborated on the proposals of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He underscored the significance of Chinese modernization in supporting Africa’s independent development, focusing on how China and Africa jointly implemented the Four Global Initiatives and advanced the Six Modernizations (covering economy, governance, ecology, etc.). He also underlined the importance of advancing the modernization of China’s system and capacity for governance, developing new quality productive forces, expanding high-standard opening-up, and promoting green development. 
Highlighting the 15th Five-Year Plan proposals, Dr. Deng Yanting outlined the opportunities and pathways for China and Africa to jointly advance the implementation of the Ten Partnership Actions. Malagasy parliamentarians, officials, and scholars noted that the guiding principles of the plenum will offer a scientific framework for the high-quality and sustainable development of Chinese modernization. They also expressed confidence that the building of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future will reach new heights during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, and that China’s wisdom, experience, and solutions will contribute to Madagascar in pursuit of its own path to modernization.




Group photo




 CAI delegation communicating with Émile, Coordinator of National School of Administration, Madagascar




Prof. Ye Hailin presenting a bamboo slip to Davida Rajaon, President of the Institute of Political Studies, Madagascar 
The delegation also visited the National School of Administration of Madagascar and the Institute of Political Studies, and held discussions with Malagasy officials and scholars on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the CAI and think tanks in Madagascar. 
 

The 23rd China Lecture held in Madagascar

At the invitation of the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by its President Ye Hailin, visited Madagascar for academic exchanges from December 9 to 13, 2025.  
On December 10 and 11, 2025, the delegation hosted the 23rd China Lecture under the theme "New Opportunities for China-Africa Cooperation During the 15th Five-Year Plan Period" in Madagascar. They were invited to brief on the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and interpret the significance of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for China-Africa cooperation in the new era. 
The delegation members included Ma Jun, Director of the International Exchanges Division of the CAI, and Deng Yanting, Associate Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Security Studies Division. 

Speakers at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025.




Participants at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025. 



The first session of the event was held at the Chinese Embassy in Madagascar on December 10, 2025. Ji Ping, Chinese Ambassador to Madagascar presided over the lecture. Johnny Rakotoarisoa, President of the Madagascar-China Parliamentary Friendship Group delivered a speech. More than 30 members of the National Assembly of Madagascar attended the lecture.
 
 

The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025. 




The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025 
 
The second session of the lecture was held at the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar on December 11, 2025. The event was presided over by Andry Razakandrainy, Coordinator of the Center, and attended by former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar, Rafaravavitafika Rasata. More than 20 officials and scholars from the center and Ministry of Foreign Affairs participated in the lecture.
In his speech, Professor Ye Hailin provided an in-depth interpretation of the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and elaborated on the proposals of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He underscored the significance of Chinese modernization in supporting Africa’s independent development, focusing on how China and Africa jointly implemented the Four Global Initiatives and advanced the Six Modernizations (covering economy, governance, ecology, etc.). He also underlined the importance of advancing the modernization of China’s system and capacity for governance, developing new quality productive forces, expanding high-standard opening-up, and promoting green development. 
Highlighting the 15th Five-Year Plan proposals, Dr. Deng Yanting outlined the opportunities and pathways for China and Africa to jointly advance the implementation of the Ten Partnership Actions. Malagasy parliamentarians, officials, and scholars noted that the guiding principles of the plenum will offer a scientific framework for the high-quality and sustainable development of Chinese modernization. They also expressed confidence that the building of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future will reach new heights during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, and that China’s wisdom, experience, and solutions will contribute to Madagascar in pursuit of its own path to modernization.




Group photo




 CAI delegation communicating with Émile, Coordinator of National School of Administration, Madagascar




Prof. Ye Hailin presenting a bamboo slip to Davida Rajaon, President of the Institute of Political Studies, Madagascar 
The delegation also visited the National School of Administration of Madagascar and the Institute of Political Studies, and held discussions with Malagasy officials and scholars on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the CAI and think tanks in Madagascar. 
 

The 20th Ambassador Lecture held by the CAI

The China-Africa Institute (CAI) held the 20th Ambassador Lecture on October 16, 2025, featuring a keynote speech by H.E. Ibrahima Sory Sylla, Ambassador of Senegal to China. The lecture was presided over by Prof. Tian Feng, Vice President of the CAI, and attended by scholars of the CAI, faculty and students of the School of International Politics and Economics, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS).
 
Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla is delivering speech
In his speech titled "Global Governance Reform in the Current Geopolitical Context”, Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla reviewed the evolution of the global governance system after the World War II (WWII), highlighting the pivotal roles played by China and Africa in advancing a new international order. He also shared his vision for future development of global governance reform. The Ambassador noted that the international political and economic order underwent profound changes following the WWII. The post-war international order, largely shaped by Western powers, suffers from significant shortcomings and fails to adequately address the needs of developing nations.
As important members of the Global South, China and Africa are jointly committed to building a fairer and more equitable international political and economic order. China has always followed the path of peaceful development and firmly supports Africa in promoting its representation in multilateral governance systems. The Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping provides important guidance for the building of a more just and equitable global governance system. At the same time, Senegal also adheres to multilateralism, advocates for dialogue and plays an active role in regional and international affairs. The ambassador pointed out that China-Africa cooperation has always been built on the basis of equality, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, and China’s path to modernization has offered valuable insights for African countries as they explore development paths suited to their national conditions and traditions. Driven by the important mechanism of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China and Africa are committed to deepening cooperation in various fields and jointly promoting peace, security, development and prosperity in Africa.
Following his speech, Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla engaged in in-depth discussions with Chinese scholars on various topics, including the implementation paths of China’s Four Global Initiatives, the impact of Trump 2.0 administration on Africa, and China's zero-tariff policy for Africa.
 
Prof. Tian Feng is making concluding speech
In her concluding remarks, Prof. Tian Feng noted that the ambassador's speech shows grand visions and profound insights, and is truly enlightening for scholars at the CAI. The shared commitment between China and Senegal to upholding international fairness and justice has laid a solid foundation for deepening mutual learning between their civilizations and enhancing cooperation in global governance. The year 2026, designated as the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges”, will serve as a platform for cultural exchange programs, and further promote dialogue between Chinese and African civilizations and China-Africa cooperation.
 
Attendees at the venue
 

CAI hosted the 14th Meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum

 



The ‌14th meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum‌, themed “China-Africa Governance Experience Exchanges and Chinese Modernization” was held on May 20, 2025 in Kunming, Yunnan Province. The event is jointly hosted and organized by the ‌Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC); ‌China-Africa Institute (CAI)‌; the ‌Secretariat of Council of National High End Think Tanks, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences‌ (CASS); ‌Yunnan University of Finance and Economics‌; and the ‌Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Yunnan Province‌. 
The opening ceremony was chaired by ‌Zhu Cuiping‌, Professor and Director of the Research Institute for India Ocean Economies, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics. Six speakers addressed the opening ceremony, including Zhao Yong‌, Minister of the Department of African Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China; Ye Hailin‌, President of the China-Africa Institute; Yang Shaocheng‌, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Yunnan Provincial People's Government; Chen Hong‌, Professor and Secretary of the Party Committee of Yunnan University of Finance and Economics; H.E. Elia G. Kaiyamo‌, Ambassador of the Republic of Namibia to China; and H.E. Hodan Osman Abdi‌, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to China.
The keynote speech session was chaired by ‌Tian Feng‌, Vice President of the China-Africa Institute. Nine speakers delivered speeches, including Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt‌, Former Head of the Office of the Chairperson of the AU Commission; Chen Xin‌, Executive Secretary, Council of National High End Think Tanks, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS); Omar Rajabu Mjenga‌, President and Chief Executive Officer of African Centre for International Policy; Wu Chuanhua‌, Deputy Editor-in-chief of The Journal of China-Africa Studies, China-Africa Institute; Phindile Mkwanazi, Deputy Director-General for National School of Government of Republic of South Africa; Zhang Youyi‌, Deputy Director of the Office of African Development at the Center for International Knowledge on Development, Global South Research Centre; Jean-François Owaye‌, Vice President of Omar Bongo University, Gabon; Zhu Cuiping‌, Professor and Director of the Research Institute for India Ocean Economies, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics; and Abdeta Dribssa Beyene‌, Executive Director of the Centre for Dialogue Research and Cooperation. 
There are four subtopics been discussed at the forum, namely topics 1： Achieving Just and Equitable Modernization through Governance Experience Exchanges and Mutual Learning; topic 2: Spearheading Open and Win-Win Modernization with Joint Implementation of the Global Development Initiative; topic 3: Advocating People-First, Diversified and Inclusive Modernization by Deepening Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations; and topic 4: Promoting Peaceful, Secure and Eco-Friendly Modernization via Sustainable Development Experience Exchanges. 
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of African diplomats in China, delegates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Yunnan Province, experts and scholars from Chinese and African universities and think tanks, media representatives. Among them, there are 62 delegates from over 50 African countries and the African Union (AU).
 

First West Africa Forum held in Dakar, Senegal

CASS President Gao Xiang addresses the opening ceremony of the First West Africa Forum, which was held in Dakar, capital of Senegal, on April 23. Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN DAKAR—On April 23, the First West Africa Forum was successfully held in Dakar, capital of Senegal, under the theme “China and West Africa: Working Together to Promote Modernization.” The event brought together renowned experts, scholars, government officials, diplomatic envoys, and journalists from China and Africa. Before the opening ceremony, Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), held productive talks with Ibrahima Gueye, director of the Cabinet of the Senegalese Prime Minister, and Mor Fall, director general of Senegal’s National School of Administration (école nationale d’administration, ENA). During the meeting, the China-Africa Institute (CAI) at CASS and the ENA signed a joint statement on the co-establishment of a China-Africa Research Center, marking a significant step forward in China-Africa think tank cooperation. In his address at the opening ceremony, Gao emphasized that President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to think tank cooperation between China and Africa and places a high value on scholarly exchanges. In August 2024, President Xi Jinping called for intellectual support for building a high-level China-Africa community with a shard future and safeguarding the common interests of the Global South in his reply to scholars from 50 African countries. Gao stressed the irreplaceable role of think tanks in facilitating mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations and in deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that the First West Africa Forum was organized to implement the spirit of President Xi Jinping’s reply to African scholars and to better mobilize academic resources from both sides in support of joint development for the Global South and the construction of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Gao further pointed out that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with major shifts in the balance of international power, and that global instability and uncertainty are on the rise. He stressed that the collective rise of the Global South—of which China and African nations are key members—is propelling the international order toward greater fairness and justice, contributing to world peace and development, and injecting strong momentum into the advancement of equity and justice for humanity. He highlighted that the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing elevated the China-Africa relationship to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era, symbolizing a new level of cooperation. China and Africa are working together to create a new framework of collaboration, synergizing Chinese modernization with Africa’s path of independent development. Chinese modernization is the modernization of common prosperity for all, marked by the eradication of absolute poverty; of harmony between humanity and nature, with continuous environmental improvements; and of material and cultural-ethical advancement, seeking to improve the people’s education level and cultural qualities comprehensively. Gao expressed China’s willingness to share its modernization experience with Africa to build a community with a shared future and underscored the growing significance of think tank exchanges in this endeavor. Gao offered four proposals to strengthen China-Africa think tank cooperation: promoting institutional innovation to deepen dialogue; enhancing joint research to provide valuable policy advice; reinforcing strategic coordination to counter Western discourse dominance; and intensifying talent cultivation to consolidate the foundation for cooperation. He expressed the CAI’s readiness to deepen partnerships with think tanks such as the ENA to jointly advance modernization efforts and realize the vision of building a community with a shared future. Gao emphasized that the signing of the joint statement to establish the China-Africa Research Center is an important milestone for promoting academic exchange, think tank dialogue, and people-to-people ties. He also noted that CASS is leading the compilation of a new general history of Africa, aiming to present Africa’s rich historical and cultural legacy and modernization achievements through rigorous academic research, thereby restoring Africa’s authentic history to its people and the world. Also addressing the opening ceremony, Li Yan, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Senegal, remarked that the successful 2024 FOCAC Summit, where African and Chinese leaders gathered in Beijing, created a “Global South Moment” in building a human community with a shared future. During the summit’s opening ceremony, President Xi Jinping solemnly announced the “Ten Partnership Actions” for joint modernization, with the “Partnership Action for Mutual Learning among Civilizations” placed first to establish a platform for exchanging governance experience. Li noted that the establishment of the China-Africa Research Center will undoubtedly spark a new wave of mutual learning between China and Africa. Against this backdrop, Li said, the convening of the First West Africa Forum was both timely and significant. It not only provides a crucial platform for strengthening dialogue and mutual understanding between China and West African countries, but also serves as a key step toward implementing the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and advancing the construction of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. She emphasized West Africa’s growing importance as a driver of African development and its increasing role in regional and international affairs. Li brought forth three initiatives: jointly advance the building of the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era; collaboratively forge a “Global South Path” for modernization; and support the implementation of China’s three global initiatives—the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative—to take root and flourish in West African countries. She expressed hope that the forum would serve as a pivotal starting point for China and Africa to advance friendly bilateral cooperation, fostering new achievements in their partnership. This collaboration will strengthen the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, promote mutual modernization goals, and contribute significantly to global peace and development. Speaking on behalf of the Senegalese Prime Minister, Ibrahima Gueye extended warm congratulations on the successful opening of the forum. He highlighted the critical opportunities emerging in China-West Africa cooperation and stressed the importance of drawing lessons from China’s modernization experience for Senegal’s ongoing efforts to advance systemic reforms and strengthen national governance capacity. Noting CASS’s stature as China’s premier comprehensive think tank with systematic research achievements in key fields of the humanities and social sciences, Gueye expressed Senegal’s eagerness to expand academic exchanges and joint research with CASS to support West Africa’s development. Gueye also pointed out that the demonstration model of cooperative development established at this forum could serve as a replicable template for similar cooperation involving more African countries and institutions. To amplify its impact, he recommended enhancing multi-dimensional publicity to better present the achievements of China-Africa cooperation to African nations and the broader international community. Looking ahead, he proposed establishing long-term cooperation mechanisms to deepen collaboration in areas such as culture, development, and security; expanding people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation in education, technology, and vocational training; and building a systematic, institutionalized cooperation framework as a model for the China-Africa community with a shared future to inject new momentum into the consolidation of this vision. Mor Fall affirmed that the signing of the joint statement between the ENA and the CAI marked a new phase in China-Africa think tank collaboration. He praised China’s consistent respect for African sovereignty and its support for Africa’s development aspirations and cultural advancement. A robust China-Africa partnership can not only promote mutual progress but also contribute positively to global peace and security, deepening the time-honored historical and cultural bonds between the two sides. Looking to the future, he anticipated strengthened comprehensive cooperation with China, including technological exchanges and people-to-people interactions, to propel China-Africa relations to new heights by consolidating South-South cooperation mechanisms and deepening mutual trust. The forum was co-organized by the CAI and the ENA. It featured two parallel sessions: “China and West Africa: Working Together to Promote Modernization” and “Three Global Initiatives and the Development of West Africa.” Following the opening ceremony, Gao presented the ENA with the French edition of the first four volumes of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China on behalf of CASS.  

4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations held in Ismailia, Egypt

CAIRO—The 4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations was successfully held on April 16 in Ismailia, Egypt, under the theme “The Modern Value of Classical Wisdom: Insights and Reflections from Ancient Chinese and African Civilizations on Contemporary Global Challenges.” Over 100 renowned experts, scholars, diplomatic envoys, and journalists from China and Africa attended the opening ceremony. The conference featured three parallel sessions: “Mutual Learning of Governance Experience in Classical Chinese and African Civilizations,” “Urban and Rural Governance in the Process of Modernization: Challenges and Responses,” and “Archaeological Cooperation and Cultural Relics Protection.”

The 4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations was held on April 16 in Ismailia, Egypt, under the theme “The Modern Value of Classical Wisdom: Insights and Reflections from Ancient Chinese and African Civilizations on Contemporary Global Challenges.” Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN
In his opening address, Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), emphasized that the conference serves as a vital platform for implementing the spirit of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. It also vividly embodies the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Culture and contributes insights to building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Gao remarked that the current global landscape is marked by escalating geopolitical conflicts, intensifying trends of “decoupling and supply chain disruptions,” and the rapid rise of the Global South. As times grow more turbulent, political leaders and academic elites should draw on historical wisdom, learning from the successes and failures of ancient civilizations to shape a better future. He described Chinese and African civilizations as radiant “twin constellations,” with their history of exchanges forming a magnificent epic of harmony and coexistence across mountains and seas.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit injected fresh momentum into mutual learning between the two civilizations, elevating the China-Africa relationship to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. At the summit, President Xi Jinping proposed jointly advancing modernization that is just and equitable; open and win-win; puts the people first; featuring diversity and inclusiveness; eco-friendly; and underpinned by peace and security. Xi also launched 10 partnership actions, including one for mutual learning among civilizations.
Gao highlighted that China and Africa have not only set a model for South-South Cooperation and building a human community with a shared future but have also declared to the world that developing countries are fully capable of creating a new form of human advancement independently and autonomously, charting a modernization path distinct from the Western model.
Gao stressed that as a flagship platform for bilateral people-to-people exchanges, the Conference on Dialogue between Chinese and African Civilizations has consistently upheld its three core missions: building a solid cultural foundation for China-Africa friendship, exploring practical pathways for mutual learning between the two civilizations, and contributing insights from the Global South to global governance.
To deepen this collaboration, Gao put forward three initiatives: tracing the origins of civilizations to inform modern governance with classical wisdom; harnessing innovation to advance development through civilizational dialogue; and reshaping global civilizational narratives through joint China-Africa efforts.
Under Gao’s leadership, the China-Africa Institute (CAI) at CASS is compiling a general history of Africa, aiming to present an objective and respectful account of African civilization through rigorous academic research. CASS will remain committed to supporting the CAI in fostering in-depth, multifaceted intellectual dialogues and academic exchanges, giving priority to the advancement of China-Africa mutual learning.
Other keynote speakers at the opening ceremony included Liao Liqiang, ambassador of the China to Egypt and Arab League; Ezzat Saad, director of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs and member of the International Consultative Committee of the CAI; Mohamed Saad Zaghloul, a professor and vice president of High Studies and Researches at Suez Canal University (SCU) in Egypt; and Hassan Ragab, a professor and executive director of the Confucius Institute at SCU.
Saad pointed out that in 2013, President Xi Jinping proposed “sincerity, real results, affinity, and good faith” as the guiding principles of China’s Africa policy, framing the two as a community with a shared future. In 2024, this relationship was elevated to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. He noted that Chinese modernization dispels the myth that “modernization equals Westernization,” offering developing nations alternative pathways to modernization. The GCI, proposed by President Xi in 2023, has enriched China-Africa cooperation with cultural and humanistic dimensions, fostering deeper trust and collaboration. Platforms such as the Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations strengthen cultural and social bonds, promoting long-term partnerships based on mutual interests and understanding.
Zaghloul underscored Egypt’s role as a bridge between East and West, with the conference’s location affirming its regional and international significance in enhancing cross-cultural understanding. SCU and its Confucius Institute have become models for China-Egypt collaboration, facilitating talent development and cultural exchanges through academic programs, vocational training, and employment forums. By partnering with other Confucius Institutes across Africa, they share experiences and overcome barriers to collaboration, advancing the vision of a China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Ragab emphasized that the conference represents an opportunity to celebrate the brilliance of ancient Chinese and African civilizations while exploring how their wisdom can address today’s global challenges. He expressed confidence that the discussions would inject new energy into China-Africa mutual learning and contribute valuable insights to building a human community with a shared future.

A scene of the conference Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN
The conference was co-organized by the CAI and SCU. On behalf of CASS, Gao presented SCU with the Arabic edition of the first four volumes of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China.
 
 

The 22nd China Lecture held in Egypt

 
At the invitation of Suez Canal University, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by Vice President Zhou Yunfan, visited Egypt for academic exchange from February 24 to 27, 2025. 
Participants at the 22nd China Lecture

 Group photo The 22nd China Lecture, jointly organized by the CAI and Suez Canal University, was successfully held under the theme of "Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South Modernization" at Suez Canal University in Ismailia on February 26. The lecture was chaired by Hassan Ragab, Director of the Confucius Institute at the Suez Canal University. Six scholars from China and Egypt delivered speeches at the lecture, with more than 200 faculty members and students attending.
 Speakers at the lecture (left: Nasser Mandour; right: Zhou Yunfan)
Professor Nasser Mandour, President of Suez Canal University, delivered a speech. He pointed out that as two ancient civilizations, Egypt and China share profound cultural values, providing a solid foundation for mutual learning between civilizations. Suez Canal University has long maintained friendly cooperation with China, it hopes to deepen its understanding of China, and to further strengthen bilateral collaboration with the CAI through this lecture. Zhou Yunfan highlighted that modernization represents a legitimate aspiration and shared cause for developing countries, including China and African nations. In this pursuit, think tanks and universities are uniquely positioned to leverage their expertise. She expected that the two sides could promote exchanges and mutual learning between their academic communities so as to provide intellectual support to Global South Modernization.
Speakers at the lecture (1st row from left to tight: Cai Yuezhou, Tang Zhichao, Qi Qiangfei; 2nd row from left to right: Ali El-Hefny, Diaa Helmy, Hassan Ragab)
Professor Cai Yuezhou from the Institute of Quantitative & Technological Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) delivered a speech. He outlined China's achievements in digital economy development and the characteristics of Egypt's digital transformation, and elaborated on the opportunities and prospects of China-Africa digital cooperation. Drawing on the features and achievements of China-Egypt friendly cooperation, Tang Zhichao, Director of the Division of Political Studies, outlined the theoretical and practical imperatives of advancing the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future, based on their comprehensive strategic partnership. With a focus on the parallels between Chinese and Egyptian civilizations, Dr. Qi Qiangfei from the Division of Ethnic and Religious Studies, explored pathways for the two sides to strengthen academic exchanges in the study of philosophy. 
Ali El-Hefny, former Egyptian Ambassador to China and Vice-Chairman of the Cairo-based Egypt-China Friendship Association, examined the historical evolution of Egypt-China friendly relations. He pointed out that China has always been a trustworthy partner for Egypt and for Africa, noting that Egypt-China relations are in a golden era with increasing economic and trade cooperation, and the two sides should inject more momentum into the bilateral ties. Diaa Helmy, Scretary-General of the Egyptian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, said that the notion of "Rich North" and "Poor South" no longer holds ground in today's world. He noted that developing countries must establish a new model of South-South cooperation to achieve mutual benefits. Hassan Ragab highlighted that Egypt and China both enjoy rich history of civilization and major achievements in development, providing strong impetus for the implementation of Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). 
The event was covered by China’s Xinhua News Agency and local Egyptian media outlets. Prior to the lecture, the delegation held discussions with Professor Nasser Mandour and other members of the faculty on strengthening academic exchange and cooperation.

Group photo at Egyptian Alumni Association in China
In Cairo, the delegation co-hosted a seminar with Egyptian Alumni Association in China under the theme "China-Africa Cooperation in the context of China-Arab Relations". Professor Nasser Abdel-Aal, President of the association, made an introduction of Egyptian Alumni Association in China. The seminar was attended by former Egyptian ambassadors to China, media specialists and university professors, covering topics such as China-Egypt partnership, opportunities and prospects for economic and trade cooperation, complementarity in China-Egyptian economic development capabilities and endowments, peace and security governance in Africa, and people-to-people exchanges between China and Africa.

Delegation is having meeting with experts at ACPSS
The delegation also visited the Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies (ACPSS), and held a meeting with Dr. Ayman El-Sayed Abdel Wahab, Deputy Director of the center. The experts engaged in discussions on South-South cooperation, global governance, China's role in regional countries, the security situation in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel region, and the application of artificial intelligence. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in academic exchanges, joint research, publication of research findings and other areas.
Furthermore, the delegation met with Abdel Badia, Director of the Egyptian, Greek and Roman Antiquities Sector, Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and discussed strengthening people-to-people exchange between China and Egypt. The delegation also visited the Chinese Embassy in Egypt, and met with Ambassador Liao Liqiang.  

The 22nd China Lecture held in Morocco

At the invitation of Hassan II University of Casablanca and the Mohammed V University of Rabat, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by Vice President Zhou Yunfan visited Morocco for academic exchange from February 18 to 21, 2025. The delegation members included Tang Zhichao, Director of the Division of Political Studies, CAI; Professor Cai Yuezhou from the Institute of Quantitative & Technological Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS); Deng Yanting, Deputy Director of the Division of Security Studies, CAI; and Dr. Qi Qiangfei from the Division of Ethnic and Religious Studies, CAI. 
 

Participants at the 22nd China Lecture, Rabat
The 22nd China Lecture was held under the theme of “Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South Modernization” on February 19 in Rabat. The lecture, jointly organized by the CAI and the Confucius Institute at Mohammed V University, drew representatives from universities, think tanks and media outlets in Morocco. Fathallah Oualalou, the former Moroccan Economy and Finance Minister; Mohamed Khalil, President of the Morocco-China Friendship Exchange Association; and Mourad Alami, a renowned Moroccan expert on Chinese studies delivered speeches, sharing insights on the achievements and significance of China-Africa and China-Morocco cooperation. 

Speakers at the lecture (From left to right: Ambassador Li Changlin, Zhou Yunfan, Karima Yatribi)
China’s Ambassador to Morocco Li Changlin said at the lecture that China-Morocco cooperation provided strong support for strengthening the traditional friendship between China and Africa. Ambassador Li expressed his hope that this lecture would further promote people-to-people exchanges between the two peoples. In her speech, Zhou Yunfan briefed on the development history of the CAI and the China Lecture, and expected Chinese and Moroccan scholars to hold in-depth discussions on deepening China-Africa collaboration in building modernization.
 

Speakers at the lecture (1st row from left to right: Tang Zhichao, Cai Yuezhou, Deng Yanting; 2nd row from left to right: Fathallah Oualalou, Mohamed Khalil, Mourad Alami)
Tang Zhichao delivered a keynote speech. He outlined the historical development of friendly relationship between China and Africa. From both historical and contemporary perspectives, he analyzed the theoretical connotations and practical implications of China-Africa cooperation for spearheading the Global South. He also raised his expectations on how China and Africa will deepen high-quality cooperation at the global, regional, and bilateral levels, so as to contribute to Global South modernization. Cai Yuezhou stressed the critical role of China’s rapid development of digital economy in fostering high-quality economic growth. He highlighted the rapid development of information technology in bridging the digital divide, benefiting the people, and alleviating poverty. Drawing on China's experience and achievements in digital poverty reduction, Cai Yuezhou reflected on opportunities for China and Africa to work together in order to advance high-quality development of modernization via digital collaboration. In his speech, Deng Yanting examined the theoretical connotations and practical pathways of Chinese modernization, and the global significance of China-Africa collaboration in promoting Global South modernization.
Fathallah Oualalou started from an overview of China-Morocco relations, and elaborated on the traditional friendship between China and Africa and the need for deepening cooperation. Mohamed Khalil explored how China-Morocco cooperation serves as a pillar and catalyst for extensive China-Africa collaboration from a Moroccan perspective. With a focus on jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Mourad Alami outlined the significance of China-Africa friendship and the remarkable achievements of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and Africa.  
The lecture was covered by China’s Xinhua News Agency and Moroccan mainstream media outlets. Before the lecture commenced, the CAI delegation held a meeting with Professor Karima Yatribi, the foreign director of the Confucius Institute at Mohammed V University, and Professor Dai Xiaoqi, the Chinese director. The experts engaged in discussions on strengthening people-to-people exchanges and cooperation and other topics.
 

Round-table discussion at the Policy Center for the New South
On February 20, the delegation visited the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) and held a round-table discussion with its senior fellow Mohammed Loulichki and other Moroccan scholars at the center. They covered topics such as China-Africa cooperation in peace and security, joint efforts to combat climate change, and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations. The delegation also visited the Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique, where Tang Zhichao delivered a lecture on China-Africa joining hand to address challenges in the 21st Century within the Global South Framework.
 

Tang Zhichao is delivering a lecture at the Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique
The delegation visited the Confucius Institute at University Hassan II of Casablanca, and held a meeting with Professor Fadma Ait Mous, the foreign director of the Confucius Institute, and the Chinese director Professor Zheng Qiong, to discuss  academic exchanges. The delegation also visited the Chinese Embassy in Morocco and met with the officials.
 
 

The 22nd China Lecture held in Tunisia

Hichem Messaoudi (L), Director of the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), speaks during the China Lecture at ISLT in Tunis, Tunisia on Feb. 22, 2025. The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia. (Xinhua/Huang Ling)
TUNIS, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia.
Under the theme of "Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South's Modernization Process" and co-organized by the China-Africa Institute and the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), the event covered topics on China's poverty alleviation experience, China-Tunisia cooperation, and the inspiration of China's modernization for China-Africa cooperation.
Noting the similar historical experiences and constant mutual support and respect between Tunisia and China, ISLT Director Hichem Messaoudi said in his speech that the Tunisian academic community is willing to serve as a bridge for developing Tunisia-China and Africa-China relations, and further promote Tunisia-China cooperation in various fields.
Achieving modernization is an inalienable right of all countries and a common task for China and African countries to pursue national development and people's well-being, said Zhou Yunfan, vice-president of the China-Africa Institute.
The common experiences and similar goals have brought China and African countries closer, with the two sides supporting each other on economic development and national rejuvenation, and with the space for bilateral cooperation constantly expanding, Zhou said.
China and African countries should work together to promote a modernization that is fair, open and win-win, people-oriented, diverse and inclusive, ecologically friendly, peaceful and secure, Zhou added. 

Zhou Yunfan (L), vice-president of the China-Africa Institute, speaks during the China Lecture at the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), in Tunis, Tunisia on Feb. 22, 2025.
The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia. (Xinhua/Huang Ling)

China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue held in Beijing

The China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue, organized by China-Africa Institute (CAI) was successfully held in Beijing on August 21, 2024. As part of the 6th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation & China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue, the event features two parallel sessions: Session 1 "Win-Win Cooperation: Shaping New Prospects for Dovetailing China's Belt and Road Initiative with the African Union's Agenda 2063" and Session 3 "Co-Prosperity of Civilizations: Heading for a New Level of Exchanges and Mutual Learning Between Chinese and African Civilizations.”
The dialogue draw experts and scholars from think tanks of African countries including Egypt, South Africa and Kenya, as well as experts from Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration, Peking University, Tsinghua University and other institutes. The Chinese and African scholars engaged in heated discussions about jointly realizing modernization and promoting exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.

Zhang Yongsheng is presiding over parallel session 1
The parallel session 1 was chaired by Zhang Yongsheng, Director-General of the Research Institute for Eco-civilization of CASS, with six Chinese experts and five African experts speaking. Feng Zhongping, Director- General of Institute of European Studies of CASS, and Professor Jairos Kangira from the University of Namibia, made comments.

Parallel session 1 speakers
Professor Tang Xiaoyang from the Department of International Relations of Tsinghua University explained the practices and challenges of knowledge sharing between China and Africa. He suggested that the exchange of knowledge between China and Africa should be promoted in three areas: technology, administration and policy, and knowledge should be produced and updated through practice. Munetsi Madakufamba, Executive Director of the Southern African Research and Documentation Centre, offered in-depth insights into education and technology transfer in Africa. He noted that in order to bring long-term benefits to Africa, China-Africa cooperation should focus more on capacity building of local institutions and less reliance on institutions from outside the region. Such capacity can be in terms of skills development and talent retention at the state level, private sector or at the support level including research and development, knowledge and data generation and other services. Lu Ruquan, President of CNPC Economics & Technology Research Institute (ETRI, China National Petroleum Corporation), and Deputy Director-General of CNPC Research Center of China Top Think Tanks, introduced CNPC’s major projects in Africa. He stressed the importance of China-Africa cooperation in renewable energy, with focus on the role of photovoltaic and wind power projects in achieving energy self-sufficiency in Africa. Abdeta D. Beyene, Executive Director of the Center for Dialogue, Research, and Cooperation in Ethiopia, focused his speech on creating synergy between the BRI and the AU's Agenda 2063. He called for closer China-Africa partnership through further cooperation and coordination to jointly address the challenges of globalization.
Zhang Li, President of the China Center for Information Industry Development, said that China's successful experience in industrialization could be integrated with Africa's development needs to fill industrial gaps and upgrade local industries. He underlined the vital role of "Green Silk Road" and "Digital Silk Road" in promoting new industrial development in Africa, suggesting improvements in industrial development quality through energy and digital transformation. Associate Professor Rana Muhammad, Head of the Department of Political Science at Suez Canal University in Egypt, pointed out that with the rapid changes in global political landscape, China-Africa relations shifted beyond 'zero-sum games' towards a win-win cooperation model. She emphasized the need to overcome the challenges in terrorism, digital gap, knowledge gap, and the negative impact of western media. Li Xiangyang, Director of the National Institute of International Strategy, CASS, noted that the economic corridors are closely related to the high-quality development of the BRI. China has provided crucial market support for BRI countries and boosted China-Africa cooperation. He believes that in the future China-Africa cooperation will gradually shift from government-led to market-driven and enterprise-led, with economic corridors offering sustainable development paths for Africa to achieve industrialization. Paul Frimpong, Executive Director and Senior Research Fellow of the Africa-China Centre for Policy & Advisory in Ghana, pointed out that the BRI involves substantial investments in infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, ports, and airports. In Africa, where infrastructure deficits have historically hindered economic development, BRI projects can significantly improve connectivity and accessibility, facilitating trade and economic growth.
Yu Yunquan, Deputy Director of the China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration and President of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, called for the strengthening of collaborative research, enhancement of knowledge sharing, expansion of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in order to push forward modernization in China and Africa. Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, Director of China Africa Institute at the University of Makeni in Sierra Leone, noted that the success of the BRI and Agenda 2063 depends significantly on financial cooperation and investment. He said, China's investments in African countries span various sectors, including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and telecommunications. These investments align with Agenda 2063’s focus on industrialization and economic diversification. For example, China’s investment in Ethiopia’s Hawassa Industrial Park supports the country’s textile industry, creating jobs and enhancing export capacity. Prof. Wang Lincong, Vice President of the CAI, pointed out that through the dovetailing of the BRI and Agenda 2063, African countries are expected to overcome long-standing development challenges and achieve economic and social advancement. He emphasized that China-Africa cooperation should also expand to new industries such as digital economy, ecological protection, renewable energy and climate change so as to nurture new economic growth points in Africa.

Prof. Ye Hailin is presiding over parallel session 3
Parallel Session 3 was chaired by Professor Ye Hailin, President of CAI, with four Chinese scholars and six African scholars speaking. The comments were made by Sun Zhuangzhi, Director of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of CASS, and Omayma Ghanem, Professor of the Chinese language at Ain Shams University in Egypt and former Counselor of Cultural, Educational and Scientific Affairs of the Egyptian Embassy to China.

Parallel session 3 speakers
Peter Kagwanja, President and Chief Executive of the Africa Policy Institute in Kenya, said that China's support for Africa under the framework of BRI reflects the concept of a community of shared future for mankind. He pointed out that China and Africa should stay alert to the smear against China-Africa cooperation in the context of geopolitical competition and international public opinions. Professor Li Anshan from Peking University noted that China and Africa should jointly promote the reform of the global governance system to create a better future for human society. He emphasized that the key to China-Africa cooperation lies in advancing reforms within the frameworks of United Nations and the G20 to better address global issues. Busani Ngcaweni, Principal of the National School of Government of South Africa, called for accelerating the synergy of the BRI and the AU Agenda 2063. He said, Africa particularly needs re-skilling, including re-skilling political and leadership, building institutions, reskilling the bureaucracy, the youth and the media. Professor Zhang Zhongxiang from Shanghai Normal University briefed on the achievements of Chinese scholars on African history, noting that Chinese scholars should continue to deepen their research on African history while African scholars should strengthen research on Chinese history so that the two sides can jointly promote exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.
Hussein Ismail, Deputy Editor-in-chief of the Arabic edition of China Today Magazine in Egypt, said that as a completely new form of human civilization, Chinese modernization breaks the myth of "modernization = Westernization", and provides important reference for China and Africa to go together on the path towards modernization and achieve co-prosperity. Chai Yu, Director-General of the Institute of Latin American Studies at CASS, underlined the achievements of mutual learning between Chinese and Latin American civilizations. She said that despite of significant cultural differences, common progress can be achieved through exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations. Paul Zilungisele Tembe, the founder and Director of SELE Encounters in South Africa, stated that China-Africa cooperation is facing a series of challenges, such as concretely and vividly presenting the images of African countries to avoid African fragmentation and hegemony, and breaking the bottleneck of China and Africa storytelling. He added, multiple cooperation platforms, such as the FOCAC can help boost win-win results in China-Africa cooperation. Feng Yanli from the Institute of Philosophy, CASS, stressed the importance of strengthening African philosophy research, as it can help find common values and consensus among different civilizations, therefore eliminate cultural differences and conflicts, and promote win-win cooperation between China and Africa.
Boubacar Diarra, Vice Chairman of the Federation of China-Africa Friendship Associations (FCAFA), and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner from Mali, said that enough emphasis has been put on the importance and necessity of exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations, however, the influence and recognition of China-Africa cooperation also need to be underlined. China and Africa should strengthen the role of think tanks and media publicity, to fully demonstrate the commonalities and different values of China and African cultures, and establish multilateral exchange mechanisms to facilitate China-Africa cooperation. Luc Bendza, Chief Representative of the African Film Association (AFA) in China, said that China and Africa media play an important role in promoting cultural exchanges and integration between the two sides. Through media reporting and film productions, the people of China and Africa have a deeper understanding of each other's cultural traditions and values, which helps to avoid misunderstandings and contribute to closer China-Africa friendship.

Participants at China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue
In the concluding speech, Prof. Ye Hailin said that Chinese and African experts and scholars have reached broad consensus through in-depth discussions at the forum, and they have contributed valuable ideas and suggestions for jointly realizing modernization and enhancing comprehensive strategic cooperation between China and Africa. In the future, we should encourage more research fellows and journalists to conduct field studies in China and Africa. The CAI will continue to offer support for Chinese and African scholars in academic exchanges, and to bring more fruitful outcomes of China-Africa cooperation and contribute to the exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.

Highlights of the 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning (3)

The 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning” was held from June 26 to June 27, 2024 in Beijing. The congress comprises four sessions: Session 1 “Historical Contacts between China and the Muslim World”, Session 2 “Encounters and Mutual Learning in Arts and Sciences”, Session 3 “Encounters in Literature, Traditions and Philosophy”, and Session 4 “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System”.

Participants at the congress

Session 4 (Part I) speakers
Session Four “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System” (Part I) was moderated by Tang Zhichao, Director and Senior Fellow of Division of Politics Studies of IWAAS, with six speakers delivering speeches. Professor Niu Xinchun, Vice-President of Ningxia University made a speech titled “The Current Relationships of China and The Arab Nations”. He presented his analysis on how the economic relations between China and Arab countries shifted from one-way investment to bilateral investment, and stated the political and economic reasons behind this strategic transition. Professor Asif H. Qureshi from the School of Transnational Law, Beijing University focused his speech on “China and Global Governance”. He explained how countries formulate rules and frameworks of diplomatic relations in accordance with the International laws and regulations, and noted that China's Foreign Relations Law reflected the core tenets of China's global governance. Professor Feng Lulu from China-Arab Studies Institute, Ningxia University, made a speech titled “The Collision of Diverse Civilizations on the Silk Road”. She illustrated the historical encounters and relations between Chinese and Islamic civilizations along the Silk Road since ancient times, and said that the shared values of the two major civilizations has built a solid foundation for future cooperation and friendly exchanges. 
Hasan Altın, Phd. Candidate from Shanghai University delivered a speech titled “Silk Roads of Knowledge: Interactions through Travelers, Trade, and Institutional Learning between China and the Muslim World”, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural exchange through trade and travel. Wei Min, Senior Fellow of IWAAS made a speech titled “Paths and Modalities of Climate Governance Cooperation between China and Islamic Countries”, outlining the paths and modalities of climate governance cooperation between China and Islamic countries, and its significant contribution to employment. Zhu Tingting, Director and Associate Professor of Arab Studies Center of the Institute of Country and Area Studies, Sichuan International Studies University, focused her speech on “New Energy Cooperation Between China and Arab Countries”, underlining the achievements and opportunities brought by renewable energy cooperation between China and Arab Countries in terms of strategic vision and complementary technologies.
Professor Liu Zhongmin from the Institute of Middle East Studies, Shanghai International Studies University, commented that the exchange between Chinese and Islamic civilizations is characterized by sustainability, inclusiveness, mutual benefit and peacefulness. He encouraged the two sides to attach more importance to differences and carry out more Silk Road Studies in the future.

Participants at the congress

Session 4 (Part II) speakers
Session 4 (Part II) discussion was moderated by An Chunying, Deputy Editor-in-chief and Senior Editor of West Asia and Africa, IWAAS with seven speakers delivering speeches. Professor Zan Tao from the Department of History, Peking University made a speech titled “The Chinese Muslim Near East Mission and Turkey in the Context of the War of Resistance against Japan”. He outlined the great contribution made by Chinese Muslims in promoting the relations between China and Turkey during the War of Resistance Against Japan, and emphasized on their role of bringing closer of Muslim societies in China and the Middle East. Professor Liu Zhongmin from the Institute of Middle East Studies, Shanghai International Studies University made a speech titled “The Idea and Practice of China's Participation in Middle East Security Governance”. He analyzed the security situation in the Middle East and China's policy on security issues in the region.
In his speech “China's Mediation Diplomacy in the Middle East”, Sun Degang, Director and Senior Fellow of Center for Middle East Studies, Fudan University, analyzed China’s role as a peace mediator. He said, China is now making efforts to enhance its soft power and strengthen the strategic partnership with the Islamic world through diplomatic mediation. Professor Liu Xinlu, Director of School of Arab Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University made a speech titled “China-Arab Common Value Construction and Cultural Discounts in International Communication”. He outlined the reasons that Arab scholars called for reshaping of international order, and noted that the phenomenon of Cultural Discounts in International communication may be caused by differences in cultural understating and acknowledgement between China and the Arab world.
Selçuk Aydın, Assistant Professor of Boğazİçİ University, Turkey, made a speech titled “Three Types of World Politics: Comparing Coercive, Economic and Diplomatic Initiatives”. He analyzed the political development models of Turkey and China and their significant roles in reshaping the global order. Professor Hou Yuxiang from the School of Middle East Studies, Beijing International Studies University, delivered a speech titled “A Study of Muslim Social Communities in Ancient Chinese Cities in The Travels of Ibn Battuta”. He elaborated on people-to-people exchanges and cultural interactions between China and the Arab world, by studying the main works of Moroccan traveler Ibn Battuta. Jiang Yingmei, Associate Researcher of IWAAS, made a speech titled “Financial Cooperation Between China and the Gulf States”. She examined the new trend of financial industry in Arab countries, and highlighted the importance and new opportunities of China-Arab financial cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road initiative (BRI). Professor Niu Xinchun commented on this session. He said, the introduction and evolution of Chinese civilization in the Middle East is a crucial part in the study of China-Arab inter-civilization dialogue, and that more in-depth research should be done in this area.

Sadık Ünay is making concluding speech

Wang Lincong is making concluding speech

Wang Xiaoming is moderating the closing ceremony
The closing ceremony was moderated by Professor Wang Xiaoming, Deputy Director-General of IWAAS, and addressed by Wang Lincong, Deputy Director-General and Senior Fellow of IWAAS, and Sadık Ünay, academic consultant of IRCICA. Professor Sadık Ünay reviewed the previous International Congress on China and the Islamic World, and expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants at the congress. He look forward to deepening cooperation with China and to facilitating effective congresses in the future.
Wang Lincong concluded that today’s congress is high-level, academic, open and fruitful in nature. He said that we have clarified the preconditions, foundations and goals of mutual learning among civilizations, and discussed the evolution and exchange of human civilization. We reached a consensus that mutual learning among civilizations is an effective way to solve global issues, and found out the way to develop modern Chinese and Islamic civilizations through mutual learning among civilizations in the future. He added that the IWAAS will continue to collaborate with IRCICA to jointly promote mutual learning among civilizations in pursuit of prosperity in civilizations.
 
 
 
 

The 21st Ambassador Lecture held by CAI

 The China-Africa Institute (CAI) hosted the 21st Ambassador Lecture on February 3, 2026, featuring a keynote speech by Mr. Li Changlin, former Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Morocco. Zhou Gongdai, Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Committee of the CAI, delivered the opening remarks, and Prof. Tian Feng, Vice-President of the CAI presided over the lecture. The event was attended by more than 40 scholars from the institute.Ambassador Li is delivering keynote speechIn his speech titled “The 10th Anniversary of China-Morocco Strategic Partnership: Achievements and Prospects", Ambassador Li Changlin reviewed the longstanding friendship between China and Morocco, that has transcended geographical boundaries. He summarized the achievements of the bilateral cooperation over the past decade since the establishment of the strategic partnership, highlighting the pivotal role of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in advancing China-Morocco relations.Ambassador Li noted that BRI has gained wide recognition from both the Moroccan government and its people. He underlined that Morocco boasts five distinct strengths in cooperation with China under the BRI, namely its strategic geographical location, the stable political and social environment, well-developed infrastructure, a high degree of economic openness, and skilled workforce, all of which have contributed to the fruitful outcomes of China-Morocco collaboration. The Ambassador also shared a positive outlook on the future of China-Morocco relations and offered an in-depth analysis of key areas for further collaboration. Zhou Gongdai is delivering opening remarks Following his speech, Ambassador Li engaged in in-depth discussions with experts and scholars on topics such as the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Morocco and the effective approaches to promote employment in the country. Prof. Tian Feng is making concluding speechProf. Tian Feng noted in her concluding remarks that Ambassador Li, with his extensive diplomatic experience and deep familiarity with Morocco, offered insightful perspectives that have enhanced the scholars’ understanding of China-Morocco cooperation under the BRI, as well as Morocco’s cultural and social landscape. His sharing provides meaningful inspiration for advancing academic research.  A scene of the lecture

The 23rd China Lecture held in Madagascar

At the invitation of the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by its President Ye Hailin, visited Madagascar for academic exchanges from December 9 to 13, 2025.  
On December 10 and 11, 2025, the delegation hosted the 23rd China Lecture under the theme "New Opportunities for China-Africa Cooperation During the 15th Five-Year Plan Period" in Madagascar. They were invited to brief on the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and interpret the significance of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for China-Africa cooperation in the new era. 
The delegation members included Ma Jun, Director of the International Exchanges Division of the CAI, and Deng Yanting, Associate Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Security Studies Division. 

Speakers at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025.




Participants at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025. 



The first session of the event was held at the Chinese Embassy in Madagascar on December 10, 2025. Ji Ping, Chinese Ambassador to Madagascar presided over the lecture. Johnny Rakotoarisoa, President of the Madagascar-China Parliamentary Friendship Group delivered a speech. More than 30 members of the National Assembly of Madagascar attended the lecture.
 
 

The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025. 




The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025 
 
The second session of the lecture was held at the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar on December 11, 2025. The event was presided over by Andry Razakandrainy, Coordinator of the Center, and attended by former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar, Rafaravavitafika Rasata. More than 20 officials and scholars from the center and Ministry of Foreign Affairs participated in the lecture.
In his speech, Professor Ye Hailin provided an in-depth interpretation of the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and elaborated on the proposals of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He underscored the significance of Chinese modernization in supporting Africa’s independent development, focusing on how China and Africa jointly implemented the Four Global Initiatives and advanced the Six Modernizations (covering economy, governance, ecology, etc.). He also underlined the importance of advancing the modernization of China’s system and capacity for governance, developing new quality productive forces, expanding high-standard opening-up, and promoting green development. 
Highlighting the 15th Five-Year Plan proposals, Dr. Deng Yanting outlined the opportunities and pathways for China and Africa to jointly advance the implementation of the Ten Partnership Actions. Malagasy parliamentarians, officials, and scholars noted that the guiding principles of the plenum will offer a scientific framework for the high-quality and sustainable development of Chinese modernization. They also expressed confidence that the building of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future will reach new heights during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, and that China’s wisdom, experience, and solutions will contribute to Madagascar in pursuit of its own path to modernization.




Group photo




 CAI delegation communicating with Émile, Coordinator of National School of Administration, Madagascar




Prof. Ye Hailin presenting a bamboo slip to Davida Rajaon, President of the Institute of Political Studies, Madagascar 
The delegation also visited the National School of Administration of Madagascar and the Institute of Political Studies, and held discussions with Malagasy officials and scholars on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the CAI and think tanks in Madagascar. 
 

The 20th Ambassador Lecture held by the CAI

The China-Africa Institute (CAI) held the 20th Ambassador Lecture on October 16, 2025, featuring a keynote speech by H.E. Ibrahima Sory Sylla, Ambassador of Senegal to China. The lecture was presided over by Prof. Tian Feng, Vice President of the CAI, and attended by scholars of the CAI, faculty and students of the School of International Politics and Economics, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS).
 
Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla is delivering speech
In his speech titled "Global Governance Reform in the Current Geopolitical Context”, Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla reviewed the evolution of the global governance system after the World War II (WWII), highlighting the pivotal roles played by China and Africa in advancing a new international order. He also shared his vision for future development of global governance reform. The Ambassador noted that the international political and economic order underwent profound changes following the WWII. The post-war international order, largely shaped by Western powers, suffers from significant shortcomings and fails to adequately address the needs of developing nations.
As important members of the Global South, China and Africa are jointly committed to building a fairer and more equitable international political and economic order. China has always followed the path of peaceful development and firmly supports Africa in promoting its representation in multilateral governance systems. The Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping provides important guidance for the building of a more just and equitable global governance system. At the same time, Senegal also adheres to multilateralism, advocates for dialogue and plays an active role in regional and international affairs. The ambassador pointed out that China-Africa cooperation has always been built on the basis of equality, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, and China’s path to modernization has offered valuable insights for African countries as they explore development paths suited to their national conditions and traditions. Driven by the important mechanism of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China and Africa are committed to deepening cooperation in various fields and jointly promoting peace, security, development and prosperity in Africa.
Following his speech, Ambassador Ibrahima Sory Sylla engaged in in-depth discussions with Chinese scholars on various topics, including the implementation paths of China’s Four Global Initiatives, the impact of Trump 2.0 administration on Africa, and China's zero-tariff policy for Africa.
 
Prof. Tian Feng is making concluding speech
In her concluding remarks, Prof. Tian Feng noted that the ambassador's speech shows grand visions and profound insights, and is truly enlightening for scholars at the CAI. The shared commitment between China and Senegal to upholding international fairness and justice has laid a solid foundation for deepening mutual learning between their civilizations and enhancing cooperation in global governance. The year 2026, designated as the “China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges”, will serve as a platform for cultural exchange programs, and further promote dialogue between Chinese and African civilizations and China-Africa cooperation.
 
Attendees at the venue
 

The 22nd China Lecture held in Egypt

 
At the invitation of Suez Canal University, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by Vice President Zhou Yunfan, visited Egypt for academic exchange from February 24 to 27, 2025. 
Participants at the 22nd China Lecture

 Group photo The 22nd China Lecture, jointly organized by the CAI and Suez Canal University, was successfully held under the theme of "Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South Modernization" at Suez Canal University in Ismailia on February 26. The lecture was chaired by Hassan Ragab, Director of the Confucius Institute at the Suez Canal University. Six scholars from China and Egypt delivered speeches at the lecture, with more than 200 faculty members and students attending.
 Speakers at the lecture (left: Nasser Mandour; right: Zhou Yunfan)
Professor Nasser Mandour, President of Suez Canal University, delivered a speech. He pointed out that as two ancient civilizations, Egypt and China share profound cultural values, providing a solid foundation for mutual learning between civilizations. Suez Canal University has long maintained friendly cooperation with China, it hopes to deepen its understanding of China, and to further strengthen bilateral collaboration with the CAI through this lecture. Zhou Yunfan highlighted that modernization represents a legitimate aspiration and shared cause for developing countries, including China and African nations. In this pursuit, think tanks and universities are uniquely positioned to leverage their expertise. She expected that the two sides could promote exchanges and mutual learning between their academic communities so as to provide intellectual support to Global South Modernization.
Speakers at the lecture (1st row from left to tight: Cai Yuezhou, Tang Zhichao, Qi Qiangfei; 2nd row from left to right: Ali El-Hefny, Diaa Helmy, Hassan Ragab)
Professor Cai Yuezhou from the Institute of Quantitative & Technological Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) delivered a speech. He outlined China's achievements in digital economy development and the characteristics of Egypt's digital transformation, and elaborated on the opportunities and prospects of China-Africa digital cooperation. Drawing on the features and achievements of China-Egypt friendly cooperation, Tang Zhichao, Director of the Division of Political Studies, outlined the theoretical and practical imperatives of advancing the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future, based on their comprehensive strategic partnership. With a focus on the parallels between Chinese and Egyptian civilizations, Dr. Qi Qiangfei from the Division of Ethnic and Religious Studies, explored pathways for the two sides to strengthen academic exchanges in the study of philosophy. 
Ali El-Hefny, former Egyptian Ambassador to China and Vice-Chairman of the Cairo-based Egypt-China Friendship Association, examined the historical evolution of Egypt-China friendly relations. He pointed out that China has always been a trustworthy partner for Egypt and for Africa, noting that Egypt-China relations are in a golden era with increasing economic and trade cooperation, and the two sides should inject more momentum into the bilateral ties. Diaa Helmy, Scretary-General of the Egyptian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, said that the notion of "Rich North" and "Poor South" no longer holds ground in today's world. He noted that developing countries must establish a new model of South-South cooperation to achieve mutual benefits. Hassan Ragab highlighted that Egypt and China both enjoy rich history of civilization and major achievements in development, providing strong impetus for the implementation of Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). 
The event was covered by China’s Xinhua News Agency and local Egyptian media outlets. Prior to the lecture, the delegation held discussions with Professor Nasser Mandour and other members of the faculty on strengthening academic exchange and cooperation.

Group photo at Egyptian Alumni Association in China
In Cairo, the delegation co-hosted a seminar with Egyptian Alumni Association in China under the theme "China-Africa Cooperation in the context of China-Arab Relations". Professor Nasser Abdel-Aal, President of the association, made an introduction of Egyptian Alumni Association in China. The seminar was attended by former Egyptian ambassadors to China, media specialists and university professors, covering topics such as China-Egypt partnership, opportunities and prospects for economic and trade cooperation, complementarity in China-Egyptian economic development capabilities and endowments, peace and security governance in Africa, and people-to-people exchanges between China and Africa.

Delegation is having meeting with experts at ACPSS
The delegation also visited the Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies (ACPSS), and held a meeting with Dr. Ayman El-Sayed Abdel Wahab, Deputy Director of the center. The experts engaged in discussions on South-South cooperation, global governance, China's role in regional countries, the security situation in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel region, and the application of artificial intelligence. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in academic exchanges, joint research, publication of research findings and other areas.
Furthermore, the delegation met with Abdel Badia, Director of the Egyptian, Greek and Roman Antiquities Sector, Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and discussed strengthening people-to-people exchange between China and Egypt. The delegation also visited the Chinese Embassy in Egypt, and met with Ambassador Liao Liqiang.  

The 22nd China Lecture held in Morocco

At the invitation of Hassan II University of Casablanca and the Mohammed V University of Rabat, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by Vice President Zhou Yunfan visited Morocco for academic exchange from February 18 to 21, 2025. The delegation members included Tang Zhichao, Director of the Division of Political Studies, CAI; Professor Cai Yuezhou from the Institute of Quantitative & Technological Economics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS); Deng Yanting, Deputy Director of the Division of Security Studies, CAI; and Dr. Qi Qiangfei from the Division of Ethnic and Religious Studies, CAI. 
 

Participants at the 22nd China Lecture, Rabat
The 22nd China Lecture was held under the theme of “Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South Modernization” on February 19 in Rabat. The lecture, jointly organized by the CAI and the Confucius Institute at Mohammed V University, drew representatives from universities, think tanks and media outlets in Morocco. Fathallah Oualalou, the former Moroccan Economy and Finance Minister; Mohamed Khalil, President of the Morocco-China Friendship Exchange Association; and Mourad Alami, a renowned Moroccan expert on Chinese studies delivered speeches, sharing insights on the achievements and significance of China-Africa and China-Morocco cooperation. 

Speakers at the lecture (From left to right: Ambassador Li Changlin, Zhou Yunfan, Karima Yatribi)
China’s Ambassador to Morocco Li Changlin said at the lecture that China-Morocco cooperation provided strong support for strengthening the traditional friendship between China and Africa. Ambassador Li expressed his hope that this lecture would further promote people-to-people exchanges between the two peoples. In her speech, Zhou Yunfan briefed on the development history of the CAI and the China Lecture, and expected Chinese and Moroccan scholars to hold in-depth discussions on deepening China-Africa collaboration in building modernization.
 

Speakers at the lecture (1st row from left to right: Tang Zhichao, Cai Yuezhou, Deng Yanting; 2nd row from left to right: Fathallah Oualalou, Mohamed Khalil, Mourad Alami)
Tang Zhichao delivered a keynote speech. He outlined the historical development of friendly relationship between China and Africa. From both historical and contemporary perspectives, he analyzed the theoretical connotations and practical implications of China-Africa cooperation for spearheading the Global South. He also raised his expectations on how China and Africa will deepen high-quality cooperation at the global, regional, and bilateral levels, so as to contribute to Global South modernization. Cai Yuezhou stressed the critical role of China’s rapid development of digital economy in fostering high-quality economic growth. He highlighted the rapid development of information technology in bridging the digital divide, benefiting the people, and alleviating poverty. Drawing on China's experience and achievements in digital poverty reduction, Cai Yuezhou reflected on opportunities for China and Africa to work together in order to advance high-quality development of modernization via digital collaboration. In his speech, Deng Yanting examined the theoretical connotations and practical pathways of Chinese modernization, and the global significance of China-Africa collaboration in promoting Global South modernization.
Fathallah Oualalou started from an overview of China-Morocco relations, and elaborated on the traditional friendship between China and Africa and the need for deepening cooperation. Mohamed Khalil explored how China-Morocco cooperation serves as a pillar and catalyst for extensive China-Africa collaboration from a Moroccan perspective. With a focus on jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Mourad Alami outlined the significance of China-Africa friendship and the remarkable achievements of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and Africa.  
The lecture was covered by China’s Xinhua News Agency and Moroccan mainstream media outlets. Before the lecture commenced, the CAI delegation held a meeting with Professor Karima Yatribi, the foreign director of the Confucius Institute at Mohammed V University, and Professor Dai Xiaoqi, the Chinese director. The experts engaged in discussions on strengthening people-to-people exchanges and cooperation and other topics.
 

Round-table discussion at the Policy Center for the New South
On February 20, the delegation visited the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) and held a round-table discussion with its senior fellow Mohammed Loulichki and other Moroccan scholars at the center. They covered topics such as China-Africa cooperation in peace and security, joint efforts to combat climate change, and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations. The delegation also visited the Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique, where Tang Zhichao delivered a lecture on China-Africa joining hand to address challenges in the 21st Century within the Global South Framework.
 

Tang Zhichao is delivering a lecture at the Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique
The delegation visited the Confucius Institute at University Hassan II of Casablanca, and held a meeting with Professor Fadma Ait Mous, the foreign director of the Confucius Institute, and the Chinese director Professor Zheng Qiong, to discuss  academic exchanges. The delegation also visited the Chinese Embassy in Morocco and met with the officials.
 
 

The 22nd China Lecture held in Tunisia

Hichem Messaoudi (L), Director of the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), speaks during the China Lecture at ISLT in Tunis, Tunisia on Feb. 22, 2025. The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia. (Xinhua/Huang Ling)
TUNIS, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia.
Under the theme of "Deepen China-Africa Cooperation to Spearhead the Global South's Modernization Process" and co-organized by the China-Africa Institute and the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), the event covered topics on China's poverty alleviation experience, China-Tunisia cooperation, and the inspiration of China's modernization for China-Africa cooperation.
Noting the similar historical experiences and constant mutual support and respect between Tunisia and China, ISLT Director Hichem Messaoudi said in his speech that the Tunisian academic community is willing to serve as a bridge for developing Tunisia-China and Africa-China relations, and further promote Tunisia-China cooperation in various fields.
Achieving modernization is an inalienable right of all countries and a common task for China and African countries to pursue national development and people's well-being, said Zhou Yunfan, vice-president of the China-Africa Institute.
The common experiences and similar goals have brought China and African countries closer, with the two sides supporting each other on economic development and national rejuvenation, and with the space for bilateral cooperation constantly expanding, Zhou said.
China and African countries should work together to promote a modernization that is fair, open and win-win, people-oriented, diverse and inclusive, ecologically friendly, peaceful and secure, Zhou added. 

Zhou Yunfan (L), vice-president of the China-Africa Institute, speaks during the China Lecture at the Higher Institute of Languages of Tunis (ISLT), in Tunis, Tunisia on Feb. 22, 2025.
The 22nd China Lecture was held here on Saturday, featuring more than 100 participants from diplomacy, universities and research institutions from China and Tunisia. (Xinhua/Huang Ling)

The 18th Africa Lecture held by CAI

The 18th Africa Lecture was held at Liangxiang Campus of the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS) by China-Africa Institute (CAI) on April 16, 2024, under the theme of "Chinese Modernization in the Eyes of International Students".
The lectures were given by Professor Hassan Ragab, a renowned Egyptian Sinologist and Director of the Confucius Institute at the Suez Canal University in Egypt; Moumouni Guillaume, Director of International Cooperation, Public Relationship and Concierge Department of School of Political and Juristic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin; and Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain, Associate Professor at School of Biological and Chemical Engineering and School of Foreign Languages, Panzhihua University.
Professor Wang Xiaoming, Vice President of the CAI presided over the lecture. More than 50 Chinese and foreign scholars and students from UCASS and other universities and research institutions attended the lecture.

Hassan Ragab is delivering speech
Professor Hassan Ragab focused his speech on his studying experience in China, the advantages and challenges of Chinese modernization. He said, he fell in love with Chinese history ever since he was a child, because both Egypt and China are ancient civilizations that have made great contributions to the development of human civilization. After graduating from high school, he decided to learn Chinese language, and he was one of the first Egyptians to learn Chinese. Professor Hassan Ragab came to China in 1986 and studied at Peking University. Since the beginning of the new century, China has witnessed rapid development in various fields, and the great achievements came from the hard work of hundreds of millions of Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC). He said that Chinese modernization is an important inspiration for Egypt, however, for many Egyptians little is known about China, therefore his mission was to act as a bridge to bring closer China-Egypt relations.  
Prof. Hassan Ragab believes that Chinese modernization is different from the traditional model of Western modernization. China formed a unique path of modernization by drawing lessons from Western modernization, and integrating with its own national conditions and traditional culture. Chinese modernization excelled in many aspects, such as integrating government-leading development with market regulation, adopting the strategy of sustainable development, building strong national force and human capital, practicing the concept of collectivism and promoting infrastructure construction. In addition, Prof. Hassan Ragab said that it remains a challenging task for the world to understand and present stories of Chinese modernization. He said, in this regard the story of Chinese modernization could be told internationally via various media platforms, by strengthening cultural and people-to-people exchanges, promoting international aid and cooperation as well as strengthening education and talent training.

Moumouni Guillaume is delivering speech
Moumouni Guillaume underlined his understanding of Chinese modernization with examples of China’s landmarks and Chinese leaders. He said, the multiculturalism and time-honoured history of the Forbidden City represents China’s splendid culture and political traditions; the Great Wall represents the wisdom of the Chinese people and its advanced science and technology; and the three generations of Chinese leaders represent the different developmental stages of Chinese modernization.
Mao Zedong, the founder of New China, successfully coped with the complex and difficult situation of the time with the spirit of self-improvement and patriotism. Deng Xiaoping is known as the “chief architect” for China's reform and opening-up policy, the policy and his thought on socialism in the new era are of great significance. Chinese president Xi Jinping did not only fulfilled the expectations of Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping for China's development, but has also led the Chinese people to strive towards the Two Centenary Goals.
Moumouni pointed out that Chinese traditional culture and the concept of socialism with Chinese characteristics have laid an important cultural and ideological foundation for Chinese modernization, which has set an example for Africa nations and many other developing countries. Many African governments failed to make good development plans due to political rivalry between parties. On the contrast, the CPC has forged the implementation of many major projects with solidarity, strong capacity and far-reaching vision. This is one of the major advantages of Chinese modernization, and African countries should learn from China.

Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain is delivering speech
Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain delivered a speech titled “Chinese modernization: a new comprehensive development paradigm”. He stressed the importance of understanding the connotation of Chinese modernization: Chinese modernization is a socialist modernization led by the CPC. It shares some commonalities of modernization with other countries, but with Chinese characteristics that is based on its own national conditions. Chinese modernization is a new comprehensive development paradigm, mainly reflected in sectors such as economic, society, ecology, culture and national governance system and governance capacity. 
He noted that with unique advantages, Chinese modernization is fundamentally different from that of Western countries. Firstly, it is led by the CPC, which helps to ensure the stability and sustainability in the course of modernization, gather strength of all ethnic groups towards one goal, and avoid any instability caused by frequent policy change. Secondly, Chinese modernization is always based on China’s national conditions, taking full consideration of its history, traditions, culture foundation and social structure to form a development path that suits its own national conditions. Thirdly, Chinese modernization is in pursuit of omprehensive development of the economy, politics, culture, society and ecology. It pays close attention to both material improvement and cultural and ethical progress. This comprehensive and coordinated development model will help to build a harmonious society and all-round development of the individual. 
Finally, Chinese modernization upholds the principle of putting people first, and always prioritizes the interests of the people with the goal to improve the living standards of the people, to promote social fairness and justice, and to achieve common prosperity for all. He stressed that the comprehensive development paradigm of Chinese modernization is of great significance for China-Africa relations. It provides new perspectives and paths for China-Africa cooperation and contributes to the sustainable development of China-Africa cooperation.
 

Participants at the lecture
In the Q & A session, international students from UCASS and Chinese teachers and students had an in-depth exchanges with the three speakers on technology transfer, traditional culture, international discourse and other topics.
 

Prof. Wang Xiaoming is making concluding speech
Prof. Wang Xiaoming said in her concluding speech, the three speakers talked about Chinese modernization in their eyes with their own experiences, which is really inspiring. The success of Chinese modernization did not come overnight, it is achieved by all Chinese people through persistent and painstaking work under the leadership of the CPC. Based on their own national conditions, African countries have drawn some lessons from the experience of Chinese modernization, one thing they adopted from the Chinese people is the spirit of hard-working and perseverance. Prof. Wang encouraged Chinese students to learn foreign languages, especially African native languages, while carrying forward China’s traditional culture, in order to make greater contributions to China-Africa communication and cooperation. 
(Photograph Courtesy of UCASS)
 

The 19th China Lecture held by CAI

 
The 19th China Lecture “Chinese Modernization and China-Africa Joint Development” was held by China-Africa Institute (CAI) on April 23, 2024. Li Xinfeng, Executive President of the CAI, and Wu Chuanhua, Associate Research Fellow of the CAI, and also Director of the Editorial Office of the Journal of China-Africa Studies, delivered keynote speeches. The lecture was attended by 18 senior officials of the visiting delegation of South African Communist Party led by Solly Mapaila, First Deputy General Secretary of South African Communist Party. Li Xinfeng presided over the lecture.

Solly Mapaila is attending the lecture
 
Li Xinfeng delivered a speech titled "Yan'an's Road to Targeted Poverty Alleviation in the New Era", introducing the four steps of China’s Poverty Alleviation Program and the significance of targeted poverty alleviation in Yan'an. He said, Yan'an has embarked on the road of targeted poverty alleviation since 2012, and achieved great outcomes.
He underlined the effective poverty alleviation measures in Yan'an. Firstly, party secretaries at four levels are organized with different focuses to carry out work in the process of poverty alleviation. Secondly, Yan’an insists on nurturing cooperation between the government, the market and the society to fully meet the capital demand of overcoming poverty. Thirdly, Yan'an insists on promoting poverty alleviation through Industrial development by creating new projects, upgrading existing projects and reforming outdated projects. Fourthly, Yan'an insists on promoting Green Poverty Alleviation through ecological development. Fifthly, Yan'an insists on promoting poverty alleviation through social cause with multi-party cooperation and cohesion, Finally, in order to pulls out poor roots, Yan'an insists on promoting Spiritual Poverty Alleviation with dual support in both determination and resources to pulls out poor roots.
He also noted that Yan'an's experience in poverty reduction is a good example of China's great success in poverty alleviation. It does not only embody the essence of Socialism with Chinese characteristics, but also highlights that the goal of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is governing for the benefit of the people. It provides a reference for other impoverished area, and contributes to the global poverty reduction with Chinese wisdom and Chinese solution.

Li Xinfeng is delivering speech
 
Wu Chuanhua delivered a speech titled "Chinese Modernization and China-South Africa Common Development", underlining the history, achievements and experience of Chinese modernization. He said that Chinese modernization comes from the civilization of 5,000 years, it comes from the long term of liberation struggle and hard work of the Chinese People, as well as the strong leadership of the CPC.
He said, the strong leadership of the CPC is the fundamental reason to achieve success in Chinese modernization. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the CPC has led the people to create two miracles: the rapid economic development and long-term social stability. In industry, China has completed the process of industrialization in just several decades that western developed countries have experienced in several hundred years. In poverty reduction, China created a historic "miracle of poverty reduction", helping more than 700 million people to lift out of poverty. He also briefed on China-South Africa trade and economic relations and future cooperation, adding that China is willing to work with South Africa for common development and a bright future.

Wu Chuanhua is delivering speech
In the Q & A session, members of the delegation of South African Communist Party had an in-depth discussion with the speakers on the great achievements of Chinese modernization, the practice of targeted poverty alleviation in Yan'an, and how to exercise full and strict governance over the Party. Solly Mapaila pointed out that the China Lecture, organized by the CAI, dose not only provide an academic exchange platform for scholars, but also helps policymakers in Africa and other countries to learn from the valuable experience of Chinese modernization. Western countries have set up academic institutions, media platforms and launched short-term projects and exchange programs in Africa. However, their purpose is to make profits rather than promoting the development of African countries. On the contrast, China's aid projects in Africa have helped many African countries including South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia to boost its economic and social development and improve people's livelihood.

The 19th China Lecture 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
 

The 18th China Lecture held in Burkina Faso

The 18th China Lecture, co-hosted by China-Africa Institute (CAI) and Center for the Study of Documentation and Economic and Social Research (CEDRES), Burkina Faso was successfully held in the capital city Ouagadougou on March 10, 2024. Victor Sanon, Executive Director of the CEDRES; Mr. Wang Wenzhang, Charge d'Affaires of Chinese Embassy in Burkina Faso delivered speeches at the lecture themed "The stories of Chinese Medical Teams aiding Africa".
Professor Li Xinfeng, executive president of the CAI, and Gilda Compaoré, head of the Communications Department of the CEDRES presided over the lecture. The event was attended by more than 40 people including members of the 6th batch of Chinese medical team in Burkina Faso, experts, teachers and students, officials of the Ministry of Health and members of the media.

The 18th China Lecture
Victor Sanon extended his warm welcome to the CAI delegations and stressed the importance of exchanges and cooperation between China and Burkina Faso. Mr. Wang Wenzhang expressed his gratitude towards the CEDRES for organizing the event, and hoped this lecture could help local people to better understand the health cooperation between China and Burkina Faso.

Member of the Chinese medical team in Burkina Faso is delivering a speech
In his keynote speech, Doctor Chen Daohu, head of the Chinese medical team in Burkina Faso made an detailed introduction about the achievements in medical and health exchanges and collaborations between China and Burkina Faso. He said, the Chinese medical teams have carried out free surgeries for two sessions, helping a total of 396 cataract patients restore sight. They also donated a large number of pharmaceutical drugs and medical equipment to hospitals across Burkina Faso every year. In addition, the acupuncture and moxibustion therapies have helped many African patients relieve chronic pains and overcome functional disorders.
Doctor Chen told a story about Ma Lan, a doctor from the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Hospital of Wuhu city in Anhui Province, and a member of the Chinese medical team in Burkina Faso. Her first patient was a 80-year-old man with high paraplegia. His family decided to choose rehabilitation instead of surgery as the treatment, so they went to see Doctor Ma to have a try. The patient was treated with TCM therapies including acupuncture, cupping, electropuncture, moxibustion and auricular therapy. Unexpectedly, the treatments were proved to be effective as the old man was able to walk on his own with walking aids rather than sitting on a wheelchair. The TCM therapy works like magic, bringing the old man hope to a new life. He even said he would like his grandson to go to China and study TCM.
Doctor Chen said, the Chinese medical teams will continue to work with local medical workers to provide sound health services for people in Burkina Faso. They will strive to promote mutual learning, common development and win-win cooperation in health collaborations with Burkina Faso, in order to jointly build a China-Africa community in healthcare.

The 18th China Lecture
Wang Caixia, a young interpreter for the Chinese medical team in Burkina Faso said, she decided to stay longer in the country to provide interpreting services after finished her first term, because she was deeply touched by the close friendship between the Chinese medical team and the local people.
The patients they encountered ranged from 4 months to 80 years of age, many of them have not yet been cured despite of seeking treatments for a long time. One of the patients who suffered from migraine for 7 years said to the Chinese medical team, "You are my last hope". Thanks to the precise diagnosis and targeted treatment plans made by the Chinese medical teams, the patient’s pain was largely relieved. It is the African patients’ genuine smile and thankful works that kept members of the team moving forward in helping the locals.

Wang Hongyi is delivering a speech
Wang Hongyi, associate research fellow of the CAI said, Chinese medical teams have been working to strengthen medical aids in Africa by sending its medical teams to the continent, bringing out fruitful results for China-Africa health cooperation.
At the lecture, participants also had a discussion on topics such as how China’s experience could help Burkina Faso in its healthcare development, the health cooperation projects and future cooperation between the two sides.
Professor Li Xinfeng expected that the lecture could help more African people to learn about stories of Chinese medical teams saving lives and helping the wounded in Africa, so as to strengthen China-Africa friendship, and promote health cooperation between the two sides. He said, in collaboration with the CEDRES, the CAI will enhance academic exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and African thinks tanks, and promote mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.

Prof. Li Xinfeng is presenting Victor Sanon the book "100 Cases of Targeted Poverty Alleviation in China I-III" (French Version) edited by the CAI
The event was reported by local mainstream media organizations including Le Quotidien, Sidwaya, L'Express du Faso and Faso 7.

Group photo

The CAI hosts the 18th China Lecture in Algeria

The 18th China Lecture, co-hosted by China-Africa Institute (CAI) and Algeria-China Friendship Association was held at the School of Medicine, the University of Algiers 1, locally known as Algiers University in Algeria on March 6, 2024. Professor Merzak Gharnaout, Dean of the School of Medicine, the University of Algiers 1, and Zhao Pingsheng, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Algeria delivered speeches at the lecture themed “Stories of Chinese Medical Teams aiding Africa”.
Professor Li Xinfeng, executive president of the CAI; and Smail Debeche, president of the Algeria-China Friendship Association presided over the lecture. Smail Debeche has received the Chinese Government Friendship Award for outstanding foreign experts, and the Award for Excellent Contributions to China-Algeria Friendship. The event was attended by more than 50 people, including experts, members of the media, teachers and students from Algerian universities, and members of the 28th batch of Chinese medical team aiding Algeria.
On behalf of the University of Algiers 1, professor Merzak Gharnaout extended his warm welcome to the CAI delegations and members of the Chinese medical team attending the event. He spoke highly of the Chinese medical workers who have made great contribution to improve the health service in Algeria, and this lecture would inspire university teachers and students with revealing stories.

The 18th China Lecture 

Before the lecture, participants watched a documentary film marking the 60th anniversary of China dispatching its first medical team to Algeria. In his keynote speech, professor Liu Ronghua from Tongji Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), also head of the Chinese medical team stationed in Setif, shared stories of himself working as a gynaecology and obstetrics doctor in Setif and establishing deep friendships with the local people.
He told stories about an Algerian anesthesiologist named Mohammed who developed close friendship with Chinese doctors during work. Whenever Chinese surgeons need help during the operation Mohammed would be the first one to offer assistance. When members of the 28th batch of Chinese medical team aiding Algeria came to visit Mohammed, he hurried joyously to show them photos of him with his Chinese doctor friends. To celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival, Mohammed kindly invited the Chinese doctors along with three respectable elderly men in the village to his farm to see his beloved horses and taste local Algerian food.


Participants at the lecture watching documentary film marking the 60th anniversary of China dispatching its first medical team to Algeria
Doctor Liu Siming, from Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), also head of the TCM Center of Chinese medical team to Algeria shared a story about a 19-year-old Algerian boy who suffered from lumbago and severe pain in his right lower limb. She said, the young boy completely recovered after receiving acupuncture and cupping treatments and practicing Ba Duan Jin, an easy-to-learn physical exercise that is proven effective for health and fitness. Later he even introduced this traditional Chinese exercise to his mum. Doctor Liu Siming also spoke about TCM’s development in Algeria, its application, influence and prospects.
Wang Hongyi, associate research fellow of the CAI delivered a speech “History and prospect of China-Africa cooperation in Health”, focusing on four development stages, the characteristics and prospects of China-Africa cooperation in health.
Professor Li Xinfeng said, since the dispatch of the first medical team in April, 1963, China has sent medical workers of over 30,000 person times to Africa, who have treated about 230 million patients, including 30 million in Algeria, and helped to deliver 2 million babies. The Chinese medical teams in Africa were widely hailed by African people for their outstanding medical skills and good virtue, which fully illustrated the spirit of Chinese medical teams - "fearless of hardships, willingness to dedicate, saving lives and helping the wounded with boundless love".
Professor Li Xinfeng said, no matter how the world has changed over the past six decades, leaders of both China and Africa have attached great importance to the work of Chinese medical teams in Africa. The first Chinese medical team to Algeria had met twice with the former Algerian president Ahmed Ben Bella who highly appreciated their work in the country.
In February 2023, in his reply letter to members of the Chinese medical teams to Africa, Chinese president Xi Jinping extended his heartfelt regards to all those who are or were on China's international medical aid missions, as 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the occasion when China sent its first medical aid team abroad. Professor Li Xinfeng noted that we should set the 60th anniversary as a starting point and continue to seek for innovation in cooperation, so as to make greater contribution to build a China-Africa community in health and China-Africa community with a shared future.

Group photo
In the Q & A session, African teachers and students said they were deeply touched by the dedication and great love of the Chinese medical teams in Africa. They had a communication with the team members on topics such as designation of the team members and the treatments of TCM and western medicine. The event was reported by Algerian medias including Algeria’s renowned newspaper and news media, La Patrie News and El Moudjahid.
During their visit in Algeria, the CAI delegations also visited the National Institute of Global Strategy Studies, Algeria-China Friendship Association, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Democratic Republic of Algeria, and held meetings with representatives of Chinese enterprises in Algeria.

The 16th Africa Lecture held by CAI

The 16th Africa Lecture “Security Situation in the Sahel Region” was held by China-Africa Institute (CAI) on Dec. 9, 2023. Professor Adama Kpodar, president of the University of Lomé, Togo was invited to deliver a keynote speech. Professor Li Xinfeng, president of the CAI presided over the lecture. More than 70 people including scholars and experts of the CAI and other research institutes attended the lecture online and offline.

Professor Adama Kpodar is delivering speech
Professor Adama Kpodar focused his speech on the political restructuring of the Sahel countries. He pointed out that after becoming independent, the Sahel countries developed their political reforms in three stages: the period of military dictatorship (from post-independence to early 1990s), the period of multi-party democratization (from early 1990s to the first decade of the 21st Century) and the post-democratization period (from the first decade of the 21st Century to the present). When transiting from the first to the second period, the Sahel countries witnessed a rapid shift from centralization to decentralization and the prevailing disequilibrium of socio-economic development, contributing to the growth of extremism. Meanwhile, some administrators in the region failed to address the governance and development deficit issues in multi-party elections, therefore some marginalized areas and ethnic groups were forced to become followers or advocates of extremism.
The extremism-based terrorism is, by its very nature, the result of disequilibrium of socio-economic development caused by the ineffective governance of the Sahel countries. It is an issue of development seen in the sociocultural field. Professor Adama Kpodar believes that the key to fight against extremism and terrorism lies into the building of a modern nation-state with inclusive development as the support. While dealing with foreign interference, the Sahel countries should strive to promote social and economic reforms, enhance the resilience of development in the course of regional integration and national modernization, and build a strong foundation for security governance. 
Professor Adama Kpodar stressed the importance of development cooperation between China and the Sahel countries and spoke highly of China's participation in security affairs in the region. He said, it has set a good example for the international community and provided strong support for the Sahel countries to address their development and security deficit issues.

Professor Nkolo Foé is making comments
Professor Nkolo Foé, Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Yaoundé 1 in Cameroon, and the former vice president of Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) commented on the speech. He said, the security deficit in the Sahel region is essentially the result of the weak governance capacity and the demanding needs of African people for diversified development. It embodies the dialectics of Economical Base and Socio-Cultural Superstructure in the Africa field.
In the modern history of China, especially during the transition from New Democratic Revolution to Socialist revolution, China had endeavored to become a modern nation-state and continued to pursue national modernization by pushing forward governance with the aim to build China a strong and prosperous country and to accomplish national revitalization as well as to fulfil all Chinese people. Those experience has proposed Chinese wisdom, Chinese experience and Chinese solution for the Sahel countries to address the issue of deficit in governance, development and security, said professor Nkolo Foé.

Participants at the lecture
In the Q & A session, the Chinese scholars had an in-depth exchanges with professor Adama Kpodar and professor Nkolo Foé on the security situation in the Sahel region, the political reforms in Francophone African countries, China-Africa security cooperation and other topics.

Professor Li Xinfeng is presiding over the lecture
In the concluding speech, professor Li Xinfeng said that the African scholars outlined the causes, characteristics and impacts of the security situation in the Sahel region, and put forward policy suggestions for promoting security governance. Their speeches are insightful and valuable in both theory and practice, helping the Chinese academic community to break western research paradigms and discourse hegemony, while remaining objective in their research about Africa.
He said, the 16th Africa Lecture is not only a good start for exchanges and cooperation between the CAI and the University of Lomé, but also a solid step made by the CAI to promote China-Africa high-level development on people-to-people exchanges in the new era. It is hoped that the lecture could help scholars from China and Togo produce more high-quality research results, and thus contribute to the joint building of a China-Africa community with a shared future.

Group photo
 
 

African media reported on the 17th China Lecture

The 23rd China Lecture held in Madagascar

At the invitation of the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar, a delegation of China-Africa Institute (CAI), led by its President Ye Hailin, visited Madagascar for academic exchanges from December 9 to 13, 2025.  
On December 10 and 11, 2025, the delegation hosted the 23rd China Lecture under the theme "New Opportunities for China-Africa Cooperation During the 15th Five-Year Plan Period" in Madagascar. They were invited to brief on the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and interpret the significance of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for China-Africa cooperation in the new era. 
The delegation members included Ma Jun, Director of the International Exchanges Division of the CAI, and Deng Yanting, Associate Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Security Studies Division. 

Speakers at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025.




Participants at the first session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 10, 2025. 



The first session of the event was held at the Chinese Embassy in Madagascar on December 10, 2025. Ji Ping, Chinese Ambassador to Madagascar presided over the lecture. Johnny Rakotoarisoa, President of the Madagascar-China Parliamentary Friendship Group delivered a speech. More than 30 members of the National Assembly of Madagascar attended the lecture.
 
 

The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025. 




The second session of the 23rd China Lecture, Dec. 11, 2025 
 
The second session of the lecture was held at the Center for Strategic Studies and Analysis, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Madagascar on December 11, 2025. The event was presided over by Andry Razakandrainy, Coordinator of the Center, and attended by former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar, Rafaravavitafika Rasata. More than 20 officials and scholars from the center and Ministry of Foreign Affairs participated in the lecture.
In his speech, Professor Ye Hailin provided an in-depth interpretation of the guiding principles of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and elaborated on the proposals of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He underscored the significance of Chinese modernization in supporting Africa’s independent development, focusing on how China and Africa jointly implemented the Four Global Initiatives and advanced the Six Modernizations (covering economy, governance, ecology, etc.). He also underlined the importance of advancing the modernization of China’s system and capacity for governance, developing new quality productive forces, expanding high-standard opening-up, and promoting green development. 
Highlighting the 15th Five-Year Plan proposals, Dr. Deng Yanting outlined the opportunities and pathways for China and Africa to jointly advance the implementation of the Ten Partnership Actions. Malagasy parliamentarians, officials, and scholars noted that the guiding principles of the plenum will offer a scientific framework for the high-quality and sustainable development of Chinese modernization. They also expressed confidence that the building of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future will reach new heights during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, and that China’s wisdom, experience, and solutions will contribute to Madagascar in pursuit of its own path to modernization.




Group photo




 CAI delegation communicating with Émile, Coordinator of National School of Administration, Madagascar




Prof. Ye Hailin presenting a bamboo slip to Davida Rajaon, President of the Institute of Political Studies, Madagascar 
The delegation also visited the National School of Administration of Madagascar and the Institute of Political Studies, and held discussions with Malagasy officials and scholars on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between the CAI and think tanks in Madagascar. 
 

CAI hosted the 14th Meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum

 



The ‌14th meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum‌, themed “China-Africa Governance Experience Exchanges and Chinese Modernization” was held on May 20, 2025 in Kunming, Yunnan Province. The event is jointly hosted and organized by the ‌Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC); ‌China-Africa Institute (CAI)‌; the ‌Secretariat of Council of National High End Think Tanks, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences‌ (CASS); ‌Yunnan University of Finance and Economics‌; and the ‌Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Yunnan Province‌. 
The opening ceremony was chaired by ‌Zhu Cuiping‌, Professor and Director of the Research Institute for India Ocean Economies, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics. Six speakers addressed the opening ceremony, including Zhao Yong‌, Minister of the Department of African Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China; Ye Hailin‌, President of the China-Africa Institute; Yang Shaocheng‌, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Yunnan Provincial People's Government; Chen Hong‌, Professor and Secretary of the Party Committee of Yunnan University of Finance and Economics; H.E. Elia G. Kaiyamo‌, Ambassador of the Republic of Namibia to China; and H.E. Hodan Osman Abdi‌, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to China.
The keynote speech session was chaired by ‌Tian Feng‌, Vice President of the China-Africa Institute. Nine speakers delivered speeches, including Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt‌, Former Head of the Office of the Chairperson of the AU Commission; Chen Xin‌, Executive Secretary, Council of National High End Think Tanks, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS); Omar Rajabu Mjenga‌, President and Chief Executive Officer of African Centre for International Policy; Wu Chuanhua‌, Deputy Editor-in-chief of The Journal of China-Africa Studies, China-Africa Institute; Phindile Mkwanazi, Deputy Director-General for National School of Government of Republic of South Africa; Zhang Youyi‌, Deputy Director of the Office of African Development at the Center for International Knowledge on Development, Global South Research Centre; Jean-François Owaye‌, Vice President of Omar Bongo University, Gabon; Zhu Cuiping‌, Professor and Director of the Research Institute for India Ocean Economies, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics; and Abdeta Dribssa Beyene‌, Executive Director of the Centre for Dialogue Research and Cooperation. 
There are four subtopics been discussed at the forum, namely topics 1： Achieving Just and Equitable Modernization through Governance Experience Exchanges and Mutual Learning; topic 2: Spearheading Open and Win-Win Modernization with Joint Implementation of the Global Development Initiative; topic 3: Advocating People-First, Diversified and Inclusive Modernization by Deepening Exchanges and Mutual Learning among Civilizations; and topic 4: Promoting Peaceful, Secure and Eco-Friendly Modernization via Sustainable Development Experience Exchanges. 
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of African diplomats in China, delegates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Yunnan Province, experts and scholars from Chinese and African universities and think tanks, media representatives. Among them, there are 62 delegates from over 50 African countries and the African Union (AU).
 

First West Africa Forum held in Dakar, Senegal

CASS President Gao Xiang addresses the opening ceremony of the First West Africa Forum, which was held in Dakar, capital of Senegal, on April 23. Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN DAKAR—On April 23, the First West Africa Forum was successfully held in Dakar, capital of Senegal, under the theme “China and West Africa: Working Together to Promote Modernization.” The event brought together renowned experts, scholars, government officials, diplomatic envoys, and journalists from China and Africa. Before the opening ceremony, Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), held productive talks with Ibrahima Gueye, director of the Cabinet of the Senegalese Prime Minister, and Mor Fall, director general of Senegal’s National School of Administration (école nationale d’administration, ENA). During the meeting, the China-Africa Institute (CAI) at CASS and the ENA signed a joint statement on the co-establishment of a China-Africa Research Center, marking a significant step forward in China-Africa think tank cooperation. In his address at the opening ceremony, Gao emphasized that President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to think tank cooperation between China and Africa and places a high value on scholarly exchanges. In August 2024, President Xi Jinping called for intellectual support for building a high-level China-Africa community with a shard future and safeguarding the common interests of the Global South in his reply to scholars from 50 African countries. Gao stressed the irreplaceable role of think tanks in facilitating mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations and in deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership. He noted that the First West Africa Forum was organized to implement the spirit of President Xi Jinping’s reply to African scholars and to better mobilize academic resources from both sides in support of joint development for the Global South and the construction of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Gao further pointed out that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with major shifts in the balance of international power, and that global instability and uncertainty are on the rise. He stressed that the collective rise of the Global South—of which China and African nations are key members—is propelling the international order toward greater fairness and justice, contributing to world peace and development, and injecting strong momentum into the advancement of equity and justice for humanity. He highlighted that the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing elevated the China-Africa relationship to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era, symbolizing a new level of cooperation. China and Africa are working together to create a new framework of collaboration, synergizing Chinese modernization with Africa’s path of independent development. Chinese modernization is the modernization of common prosperity for all, marked by the eradication of absolute poverty; of harmony between humanity and nature, with continuous environmental improvements; and of material and cultural-ethical advancement, seeking to improve the people’s education level and cultural qualities comprehensively. Gao expressed China’s willingness to share its modernization experience with Africa to build a community with a shared future and underscored the growing significance of think tank exchanges in this endeavor. Gao offered four proposals to strengthen China-Africa think tank cooperation: promoting institutional innovation to deepen dialogue; enhancing joint research to provide valuable policy advice; reinforcing strategic coordination to counter Western discourse dominance; and intensifying talent cultivation to consolidate the foundation for cooperation. He expressed the CAI’s readiness to deepen partnerships with think tanks such as the ENA to jointly advance modernization efforts and realize the vision of building a community with a shared future. Gao emphasized that the signing of the joint statement to establish the China-Africa Research Center is an important milestone for promoting academic exchange, think tank dialogue, and people-to-people ties. He also noted that CASS is leading the compilation of a new general history of Africa, aiming to present Africa’s rich historical and cultural legacy and modernization achievements through rigorous academic research, thereby restoring Africa’s authentic history to its people and the world. Also addressing the opening ceremony, Li Yan, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Senegal, remarked that the successful 2024 FOCAC Summit, where African and Chinese leaders gathered in Beijing, created a “Global South Moment” in building a human community with a shared future. During the summit’s opening ceremony, President Xi Jinping solemnly announced the “Ten Partnership Actions” for joint modernization, with the “Partnership Action for Mutual Learning among Civilizations” placed first to establish a platform for exchanging governance experience. Li noted that the establishment of the China-Africa Research Center will undoubtedly spark a new wave of mutual learning between China and Africa. Against this backdrop, Li said, the convening of the First West Africa Forum was both timely and significant. It not only provides a crucial platform for strengthening dialogue and mutual understanding between China and West African countries, but also serves as a key step toward implementing the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and advancing the construction of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. She emphasized West Africa’s growing importance as a driver of African development and its increasing role in regional and international affairs. Li brought forth three initiatives: jointly advance the building of the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era; collaboratively forge a “Global South Path” for modernization; and support the implementation of China’s three global initiatives—the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative—to take root and flourish in West African countries. She expressed hope that the forum would serve as a pivotal starting point for China and Africa to advance friendly bilateral cooperation, fostering new achievements in their partnership. This collaboration will strengthen the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, promote mutual modernization goals, and contribute significantly to global peace and development. Speaking on behalf of the Senegalese Prime Minister, Ibrahima Gueye extended warm congratulations on the successful opening of the forum. He highlighted the critical opportunities emerging in China-West Africa cooperation and stressed the importance of drawing lessons from China’s modernization experience for Senegal’s ongoing efforts to advance systemic reforms and strengthen national governance capacity. Noting CASS’s stature as China’s premier comprehensive think tank with systematic research achievements in key fields of the humanities and social sciences, Gueye expressed Senegal’s eagerness to expand academic exchanges and joint research with CASS to support West Africa’s development. Gueye also pointed out that the demonstration model of cooperative development established at this forum could serve as a replicable template for similar cooperation involving more African countries and institutions. To amplify its impact, he recommended enhancing multi-dimensional publicity to better present the achievements of China-Africa cooperation to African nations and the broader international community. Looking ahead, he proposed establishing long-term cooperation mechanisms to deepen collaboration in areas such as culture, development, and security; expanding people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation in education, technology, and vocational training; and building a systematic, institutionalized cooperation framework as a model for the China-Africa community with a shared future to inject new momentum into the consolidation of this vision. Mor Fall affirmed that the signing of the joint statement between the ENA and the CAI marked a new phase in China-Africa think tank collaboration. He praised China’s consistent respect for African sovereignty and its support for Africa’s development aspirations and cultural advancement. A robust China-Africa partnership can not only promote mutual progress but also contribute positively to global peace and security, deepening the time-honored historical and cultural bonds between the two sides. Looking to the future, he anticipated strengthened comprehensive cooperation with China, including technological exchanges and people-to-people interactions, to propel China-Africa relations to new heights by consolidating South-South cooperation mechanisms and deepening mutual trust. The forum was co-organized by the CAI and the ENA. It featured two parallel sessions: “China and West Africa: Working Together to Promote Modernization” and “Three Global Initiatives and the Development of West Africa.” Following the opening ceremony, Gao presented the ENA with the French edition of the first four volumes of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China on behalf of CASS.  

4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations held in Ismailia, Egypt

CAIRO—The 4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations was successfully held on April 16 in Ismailia, Egypt, under the theme “The Modern Value of Classical Wisdom: Insights and Reflections from Ancient Chinese and African Civilizations on Contemporary Global Challenges.” Over 100 renowned experts, scholars, diplomatic envoys, and journalists from China and Africa attended the opening ceremony. The conference featured three parallel sessions: “Mutual Learning of Governance Experience in Classical Chinese and African Civilizations,” “Urban and Rural Governance in the Process of Modernization: Challenges and Responses,” and “Archaeological Cooperation and Cultural Relics Protection.”

The 4th Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations was held on April 16 in Ismailia, Egypt, under the theme “The Modern Value of Classical Wisdom: Insights and Reflections from Ancient Chinese and African Civilizations on Contemporary Global Challenges.” Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN
In his opening address, Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), emphasized that the conference serves as a vital platform for implementing the spirit of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. It also vividly embodies the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Culture and contributes insights to building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Gao remarked that the current global landscape is marked by escalating geopolitical conflicts, intensifying trends of “decoupling and supply chain disruptions,” and the rapid rise of the Global South. As times grow more turbulent, political leaders and academic elites should draw on historical wisdom, learning from the successes and failures of ancient civilizations to shape a better future. He described Chinese and African civilizations as radiant “twin constellations,” with their history of exchanges forming a magnificent epic of harmony and coexistence across mountains and seas.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit injected fresh momentum into mutual learning between the two civilizations, elevating the China-Africa relationship to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. At the summit, President Xi Jinping proposed jointly advancing modernization that is just and equitable; open and win-win; puts the people first; featuring diversity and inclusiveness; eco-friendly; and underpinned by peace and security. Xi also launched 10 partnership actions, including one for mutual learning among civilizations.
Gao highlighted that China and Africa have not only set a model for South-South Cooperation and building a human community with a shared future but have also declared to the world that developing countries are fully capable of creating a new form of human advancement independently and autonomously, charting a modernization path distinct from the Western model.
Gao stressed that as a flagship platform for bilateral people-to-people exchanges, the Conference on Dialogue between Chinese and African Civilizations has consistently upheld its three core missions: building a solid cultural foundation for China-Africa friendship, exploring practical pathways for mutual learning between the two civilizations, and contributing insights from the Global South to global governance.
To deepen this collaboration, Gao put forward three initiatives: tracing the origins of civilizations to inform modern governance with classical wisdom; harnessing innovation to advance development through civilizational dialogue; and reshaping global civilizational narratives through joint China-Africa efforts.
Under Gao’s leadership, the China-Africa Institute (CAI) at CASS is compiling a general history of Africa, aiming to present an objective and respectful account of African civilization through rigorous academic research. CASS will remain committed to supporting the CAI in fostering in-depth, multifaceted intellectual dialogues and academic exchanges, giving priority to the advancement of China-Africa mutual learning.
Other keynote speakers at the opening ceremony included Liao Liqiang, ambassador of the China to Egypt and Arab League; Ezzat Saad, director of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs and member of the International Consultative Committee of the CAI; Mohamed Saad Zaghloul, a professor and vice president of High Studies and Researches at Suez Canal University (SCU) in Egypt; and Hassan Ragab, a professor and executive director of the Confucius Institute at SCU.
Saad pointed out that in 2013, President Xi Jinping proposed “sincerity, real results, affinity, and good faith” as the guiding principles of China’s Africa policy, framing the two as a community with a shared future. In 2024, this relationship was elevated to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era. He noted that Chinese modernization dispels the myth that “modernization equals Westernization,” offering developing nations alternative pathways to modernization. The GCI, proposed by President Xi in 2023, has enriched China-Africa cooperation with cultural and humanistic dimensions, fostering deeper trust and collaboration. Platforms such as the Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations strengthen cultural and social bonds, promoting long-term partnerships based on mutual interests and understanding.
Zaghloul underscored Egypt’s role as a bridge between East and West, with the conference’s location affirming its regional and international significance in enhancing cross-cultural understanding. SCU and its Confucius Institute have become models for China-Egypt collaboration, facilitating talent development and cultural exchanges through academic programs, vocational training, and employment forums. By partnering with other Confucius Institutes across Africa, they share experiences and overcome barriers to collaboration, advancing the vision of a China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Ragab emphasized that the conference represents an opportunity to celebrate the brilliance of ancient Chinese and African civilizations while exploring how their wisdom can address today’s global challenges. He expressed confidence that the discussions would inject new energy into China-Africa mutual learning and contribute valuable insights to building a human community with a shared future.

A scene of the conference Photo: Wang Zhou/CSSN
The conference was co-organized by the CAI and SCU. On behalf of CASS, Gao presented SCU with the Arabic edition of the first four volumes of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China.
 
 

China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue held in Beijing

The China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue, organized by China-Africa Institute (CAI) was successfully held in Beijing on August 21, 2024. As part of the 6th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation & China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue, the event features two parallel sessions: Session 1 "Win-Win Cooperation: Shaping New Prospects for Dovetailing China's Belt and Road Initiative with the African Union's Agenda 2063" and Session 3 "Co-Prosperity of Civilizations: Heading for a New Level of Exchanges and Mutual Learning Between Chinese and African Civilizations.”
The dialogue draw experts and scholars from think tanks of African countries including Egypt, South Africa and Kenya, as well as experts from Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration, Peking University, Tsinghua University and other institutes. The Chinese and African scholars engaged in heated discussions about jointly realizing modernization and promoting exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.

Zhang Yongsheng is presiding over parallel session 1
The parallel session 1 was chaired by Zhang Yongsheng, Director-General of the Research Institute for Eco-civilization of CASS, with six Chinese experts and five African experts speaking. Feng Zhongping, Director- General of Institute of European Studies of CASS, and Professor Jairos Kangira from the University of Namibia, made comments.

Parallel session 1 speakers
Professor Tang Xiaoyang from the Department of International Relations of Tsinghua University explained the practices and challenges of knowledge sharing between China and Africa. He suggested that the exchange of knowledge between China and Africa should be promoted in three areas: technology, administration and policy, and knowledge should be produced and updated through practice. Munetsi Madakufamba, Executive Director of the Southern African Research and Documentation Centre, offered in-depth insights into education and technology transfer in Africa. He noted that in order to bring long-term benefits to Africa, China-Africa cooperation should focus more on capacity building of local institutions and less reliance on institutions from outside the region. Such capacity can be in terms of skills development and talent retention at the state level, private sector or at the support level including research and development, knowledge and data generation and other services. Lu Ruquan, President of CNPC Economics & Technology Research Institute (ETRI, China National Petroleum Corporation), and Deputy Director-General of CNPC Research Center of China Top Think Tanks, introduced CNPC’s major projects in Africa. He stressed the importance of China-Africa cooperation in renewable energy, with focus on the role of photovoltaic and wind power projects in achieving energy self-sufficiency in Africa. Abdeta D. Beyene, Executive Director of the Center for Dialogue, Research, and Cooperation in Ethiopia, focused his speech on creating synergy between the BRI and the AU's Agenda 2063. He called for closer China-Africa partnership through further cooperation and coordination to jointly address the challenges of globalization.
Zhang Li, President of the China Center for Information Industry Development, said that China's successful experience in industrialization could be integrated with Africa's development needs to fill industrial gaps and upgrade local industries. He underlined the vital role of "Green Silk Road" and "Digital Silk Road" in promoting new industrial development in Africa, suggesting improvements in industrial development quality through energy and digital transformation. Associate Professor Rana Muhammad, Head of the Department of Political Science at Suez Canal University in Egypt, pointed out that with the rapid changes in global political landscape, China-Africa relations shifted beyond 'zero-sum games' towards a win-win cooperation model. She emphasized the need to overcome the challenges in terrorism, digital gap, knowledge gap, and the negative impact of western media. Li Xiangyang, Director of the National Institute of International Strategy, CASS, noted that the economic corridors are closely related to the high-quality development of the BRI. China has provided crucial market support for BRI countries and boosted China-Africa cooperation. He believes that in the future China-Africa cooperation will gradually shift from government-led to market-driven and enterprise-led, with economic corridors offering sustainable development paths for Africa to achieve industrialization. Paul Frimpong, Executive Director and Senior Research Fellow of the Africa-China Centre for Policy & Advisory in Ghana, pointed out that the BRI involves substantial investments in infrastructure projects, such as roads, railways, ports, and airports. In Africa, where infrastructure deficits have historically hindered economic development, BRI projects can significantly improve connectivity and accessibility, facilitating trade and economic growth.
Yu Yunquan, Deputy Director of the China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration and President of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, called for the strengthening of collaborative research, enhancement of knowledge sharing, expansion of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in order to push forward modernization in China and Africa. Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, Director of China Africa Institute at the University of Makeni in Sierra Leone, noted that the success of the BRI and Agenda 2063 depends significantly on financial cooperation and investment. He said, China's investments in African countries span various sectors, including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and telecommunications. These investments align with Agenda 2063’s focus on industrialization and economic diversification. For example, China’s investment in Ethiopia’s Hawassa Industrial Park supports the country’s textile industry, creating jobs and enhancing export capacity. Prof. Wang Lincong, Vice President of the CAI, pointed out that through the dovetailing of the BRI and Agenda 2063, African countries are expected to overcome long-standing development challenges and achieve economic and social advancement. He emphasized that China-Africa cooperation should also expand to new industries such as digital economy, ecological protection, renewable energy and climate change so as to nurture new economic growth points in Africa.

Prof. Ye Hailin is presiding over parallel session 3
Parallel Session 3 was chaired by Professor Ye Hailin, President of CAI, with four Chinese scholars and six African scholars speaking. The comments were made by Sun Zhuangzhi, Director of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of CASS, and Omayma Ghanem, Professor of the Chinese language at Ain Shams University in Egypt and former Counselor of Cultural, Educational and Scientific Affairs of the Egyptian Embassy to China.

Parallel session 3 speakers
Peter Kagwanja, President and Chief Executive of the Africa Policy Institute in Kenya, said that China's support for Africa under the framework of BRI reflects the concept of a community of shared future for mankind. He pointed out that China and Africa should stay alert to the smear against China-Africa cooperation in the context of geopolitical competition and international public opinions. Professor Li Anshan from Peking University noted that China and Africa should jointly promote the reform of the global governance system to create a better future for human society. He emphasized that the key to China-Africa cooperation lies in advancing reforms within the frameworks of United Nations and the G20 to better address global issues. Busani Ngcaweni, Principal of the National School of Government of South Africa, called for accelerating the synergy of the BRI and the AU Agenda 2063. He said, Africa particularly needs re-skilling, including re-skilling political and leadership, building institutions, reskilling the bureaucracy, the youth and the media. Professor Zhang Zhongxiang from Shanghai Normal University briefed on the achievements of Chinese scholars on African history, noting that Chinese scholars should continue to deepen their research on African history while African scholars should strengthen research on Chinese history so that the two sides can jointly promote exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.
Hussein Ismail, Deputy Editor-in-chief of the Arabic edition of China Today Magazine in Egypt, said that as a completely new form of human civilization, Chinese modernization breaks the myth of "modernization = Westernization", and provides important reference for China and Africa to go together on the path towards modernization and achieve co-prosperity. Chai Yu, Director-General of the Institute of Latin American Studies at CASS, underlined the achievements of mutual learning between Chinese and Latin American civilizations. She said that despite of significant cultural differences, common progress can be achieved through exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations. Paul Zilungisele Tembe, the founder and Director of SELE Encounters in South Africa, stated that China-Africa cooperation is facing a series of challenges, such as concretely and vividly presenting the images of African countries to avoid African fragmentation and hegemony, and breaking the bottleneck of China and Africa storytelling. He added, multiple cooperation platforms, such as the FOCAC can help boost win-win results in China-Africa cooperation. Feng Yanli from the Institute of Philosophy, CASS, stressed the importance of strengthening African philosophy research, as it can help find common values and consensus among different civilizations, therefore eliminate cultural differences and conflicts, and promote win-win cooperation between China and Africa.
Boubacar Diarra, Vice Chairman of the Federation of China-Africa Friendship Associations (FCAFA), and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner from Mali, said that enough emphasis has been put on the importance and necessity of exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations, however, the influence and recognition of China-Africa cooperation also need to be underlined. China and Africa should strengthen the role of think tanks and media publicity, to fully demonstrate the commonalities and different values of China and African cultures, and establish multilateral exchange mechanisms to facilitate China-Africa cooperation. Luc Bendza, Chief Representative of the African Film Association (AFA) in China, said that China and Africa media play an important role in promoting cultural exchanges and integration between the two sides. Through media reporting and film productions, the people of China and Africa have a deeper understanding of each other's cultural traditions and values, which helps to avoid misunderstandings and contribute to closer China-Africa friendship.

Participants at China-Africa Think Tank High-Level Dialogue
In the concluding speech, Prof. Ye Hailin said that Chinese and African experts and scholars have reached broad consensus through in-depth discussions at the forum, and they have contributed valuable ideas and suggestions for jointly realizing modernization and enhancing comprehensive strategic cooperation between China and Africa. In the future, we should encourage more research fellows and journalists to conduct field studies in China and Africa. The CAI will continue to offer support for Chinese and African scholars in academic exchanges, and to bring more fruitful outcomes of China-Africa cooperation and contribute to the exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.

Highlights of the 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning (3)

The 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning” was held from June 26 to June 27, 2024 in Beijing. The congress comprises four sessions: Session 1 “Historical Contacts between China and the Muslim World”, Session 2 “Encounters and Mutual Learning in Arts and Sciences”, Session 3 “Encounters in Literature, Traditions and Philosophy”, and Session 4 “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System”.

Participants at the congress

Session 4 (Part I) speakers
Session Four “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System” (Part I) was moderated by Tang Zhichao, Director and Senior Fellow of Division of Politics Studies of IWAAS, with six speakers delivering speeches. Professor Niu Xinchun, Vice-President of Ningxia University made a speech titled “The Current Relationships of China and The Arab Nations”. He presented his analysis on how the economic relations between China and Arab countries shifted from one-way investment to bilateral investment, and stated the political and economic reasons behind this strategic transition. Professor Asif H. Qureshi from the School of Transnational Law, Beijing University focused his speech on “China and Global Governance”. He explained how countries formulate rules and frameworks of diplomatic relations in accordance with the International laws and regulations, and noted that China's Foreign Relations Law reflected the core tenets of China's global governance. Professor Feng Lulu from China-Arab Studies Institute, Ningxia University, made a speech titled “The Collision of Diverse Civilizations on the Silk Road”. She illustrated the historical encounters and relations between Chinese and Islamic civilizations along the Silk Road since ancient times, and said that the shared values of the two major civilizations has built a solid foundation for future cooperation and friendly exchanges. 
Hasan Altın, Phd. Candidate from Shanghai University delivered a speech titled “Silk Roads of Knowledge: Interactions through Travelers, Trade, and Institutional Learning between China and the Muslim World”, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural exchange through trade and travel. Wei Min, Senior Fellow of IWAAS made a speech titled “Paths and Modalities of Climate Governance Cooperation between China and Islamic Countries”, outlining the paths and modalities of climate governance cooperation between China and Islamic countries, and its significant contribution to employment. Zhu Tingting, Director and Associate Professor of Arab Studies Center of the Institute of Country and Area Studies, Sichuan International Studies University, focused her speech on “New Energy Cooperation Between China and Arab Countries”, underlining the achievements and opportunities brought by renewable energy cooperation between China and Arab Countries in terms of strategic vision and complementary technologies.
Professor Liu Zhongmin from the Institute of Middle East Studies, Shanghai International Studies University, commented that the exchange between Chinese and Islamic civilizations is characterized by sustainability, inclusiveness, mutual benefit and peacefulness. He encouraged the two sides to attach more importance to differences and carry out more Silk Road Studies in the future.

Participants at the congress

Session 4 (Part II) speakers
Session 4 (Part II) discussion was moderated by An Chunying, Deputy Editor-in-chief and Senior Editor of West Asia and Africa, IWAAS with seven speakers delivering speeches. Professor Zan Tao from the Department of History, Peking University made a speech titled “The Chinese Muslim Near East Mission and Turkey in the Context of the War of Resistance against Japan”. He outlined the great contribution made by Chinese Muslims in promoting the relations between China and Turkey during the War of Resistance Against Japan, and emphasized on their role of bringing closer of Muslim societies in China and the Middle East. Professor Liu Zhongmin from the Institute of Middle East Studies, Shanghai International Studies University made a speech titled “The Idea and Practice of China's Participation in Middle East Security Governance”. He analyzed the security situation in the Middle East and China's policy on security issues in the region.
In his speech “China's Mediation Diplomacy in the Middle East”, Sun Degang, Director and Senior Fellow of Center for Middle East Studies, Fudan University, analyzed China’s role as a peace mediator. He said, China is now making efforts to enhance its soft power and strengthen the strategic partnership with the Islamic world through diplomatic mediation. Professor Liu Xinlu, Director of School of Arab Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University made a speech titled “China-Arab Common Value Construction and Cultural Discounts in International Communication”. He outlined the reasons that Arab scholars called for reshaping of international order, and noted that the phenomenon of Cultural Discounts in International communication may be caused by differences in cultural understating and acknowledgement between China and the Arab world.
Selçuk Aydın, Assistant Professor of Boğazİçİ University, Turkey, made a speech titled “Three Types of World Politics: Comparing Coercive, Economic and Diplomatic Initiatives”. He analyzed the political development models of Turkey and China and their significant roles in reshaping the global order. Professor Hou Yuxiang from the School of Middle East Studies, Beijing International Studies University, delivered a speech titled “A Study of Muslim Social Communities in Ancient Chinese Cities in The Travels of Ibn Battuta”. He elaborated on people-to-people exchanges and cultural interactions between China and the Arab world, by studying the main works of Moroccan traveler Ibn Battuta. Jiang Yingmei, Associate Researcher of IWAAS, made a speech titled “Financial Cooperation Between China and the Gulf States”. She examined the new trend of financial industry in Arab countries, and highlighted the importance and new opportunities of China-Arab financial cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road initiative (BRI). Professor Niu Xinchun commented on this session. He said, the introduction and evolution of Chinese civilization in the Middle East is a crucial part in the study of China-Arab inter-civilization dialogue, and that more in-depth research should be done in this area.

Sadık Ünay is making concluding speech

Wang Lincong is making concluding speech

Wang Xiaoming is moderating the closing ceremony
The closing ceremony was moderated by Professor Wang Xiaoming, Deputy Director-General of IWAAS, and addressed by Wang Lincong, Deputy Director-General and Senior Fellow of IWAAS, and Sadık Ünay, academic consultant of IRCICA. Professor Sadık Ünay reviewed the previous International Congress on China and the Islamic World, and expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants at the congress. He look forward to deepening cooperation with China and to facilitating effective congresses in the future.
Wang Lincong concluded that today’s congress is high-level, academic, open and fruitful in nature. He said that we have clarified the preconditions, foundations and goals of mutual learning among civilizations, and discussed the evolution and exchange of human civilization. We reached a consensus that mutual learning among civilizations is an effective way to solve global issues, and found out the way to develop modern Chinese and Islamic civilizations through mutual learning among civilizations in the future. He added that the IWAAS will continue to collaborate with IRCICA to jointly promote mutual learning among civilizations in pursuit of prosperity in civilizations.
 
 
 
 

Highlights of the 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning (2)

The 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning” was held from June 26 to June 27, 2024 in Beijing. The congress comprises four sessions: Session 1 "Historical Contacts between China and the Muslim World”, Session 2 “Encounters and Mutual Learning in Arts and Sciences”, Session 3 “Encounters in Literature, Traditions and Philosophy”, and Session 4 “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System”. 
 

Participants at the congress

Session 1 speakers
Session One “Historical Contacts between China and the Muslim World” was moderated by Selçuk Aydın, Assistant Professor of Boğazİçİ University, Turkey. Bi Jiankang, Senior Fellow of Institute of World History, CASS, made a keynote speech titled “Du Huan's Journey to the West and the Mutual Understanding of Chinese and Arab Civilizations”. He traced the history of China-Arab trade with emphasis on Du Huan’s journey to the Arab world in Tang Dynasty, and elaborated on mutual learning between Chinese and Arab Civilizations in terms of people-to-people exchanges, trade-route and exchanges of merchandise and agricultural products.
Professor Han Zhibin, Director of the Middle East Studies Institute, Northwest University, made a speech titled “The Triple Logic of Global Civilization Initiative and Human Civilization Exchange and Mutual Learning”. He suggested that the logic of Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and human civilization exchange and mutual learning lie in three factors: the practical needs, historical interactions and theoretical consciousness. Professor Lee Hee Soo from Keimyung University, Korea, delivered a video speech on "Pan-Islamic Activity of the Ottoman Empire in East Asia and Chinese Muslim Community in the Early 20th century". He explained, Pan-Islamism is a movement of the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th and early 20th  centuries which attempted to revive the unifying strength of Islam. As part of the Pan-Islamic activities, Chinese Imam (Ahong) Wang Kuan was invited to Istanbul in 1906 by Abdul Hamid II. His invitation to Istanbul probably came out of the contacts and encouragement of Muhammad Ali who has previously visited Beijing in 1902 as the Sultan's private mission and stayed in Wang Kuan's residence. Professor Lee Hee Soo said that these archive materials reflected the important role of Pan-Islamism in fostering friendly exchanges between Chinese Muslims and the Islamic world .
Professor Yan Wei, Deputy Director-General of the Middle East Studies Institute, Northwest University, made a speech titled “Civilization Exchange between Ancient China and Iran”. He stated that China’s historical interactions with Islamic countries dated from as early as Han Dynasty, and developed through Tang Dynasty and Yuan Dynasty. He said, over time China and the Arab world witnessed increasing exchanges in technology, culture, politics and other areas. Wang Jinyan, Deputy Director and Associate Researcher of Division of Social-Cultural Studies of IWAAS made a speech titled “The contemporary significance of mutual learning between Chinese and Arab civilizations”. She made an overview of exchanges between China and the Islamic world, pointing out that the two sides have upheld political mutual respect and trust, pushed forward win-win cooperation and promoted mutual learning in cultural exchanges.
Professor Ma Lirong, Director of Institute of Silk Road Strategy Studies, Shanghai International Studies University, also Director of Organization of Islamic Cooperation Research Center, Ministry of Education of China, made comments on Session One. She said that the speakers covered different topics from both micro and macro perspectives to reflect the peaceful, diverse and open interactions between Chinese and Islamic civilizations, which will provide guidance for building of a sound international system.

Participants at the congress

Session 2 speakers
Session Two “Encounters and Mutual Learning in Arts and Sciences” was moderated by Tong Fei, Director and Associate Researcher of Division of Security Studies of IWAAS. The first speaker of the session is Professor Ma Lirong. In her speech “The Belt and Road Initiative and Building of a Community with a Shared Future for China and Islamic World Silk Road”, Professor Ma Lirong talked about the basis, logic and significance of building a community with a shared future for China and Islamic World Silk Road. Professor Xiao Ling from the School of Middle Eastern Studies, Beijing International Studies University, made a speech titled “The Similarities Between The Traditional Values Of China And Arab-Islamic Civilization: A Perspective Of Cultural Linguistics”. She explained the similarities between Chinese and Islamic traditional values such as personal conduct from a perspective of cultural linguistics.
Professor Wang Guangda from Shanghai International Studies University, also Secretary-General of the China-Arab Research Center on Reform and Development delivered a speech focusing on“Biography of the Islamic Prophet in Chinese Writing”. He believes that Chinese culture holds a positive view towards Islam and its prophet Muhammad, considering Muhammad as one of the symbols of virtue and morality. His cultural image in China is one of purity, and Islamism and the related figures in Chinese writing are portrayed positively. This reflects that Chinese and Arabic cultures are in a relationship of equality, mutual respect and appreciation.
Guo Yun, Professor of Zhejiang International Studies University focused her speech on“The Development of Ancient Arab Maps and the Records of China in them from the 7th to 15th Century”. She said that the image of China depicted in ancient Arab maps are generally positive, which helped the Arabic world to learn about China through historical facts instead of mythical stories. Mi Guanghai, teacher of Chinese traditional style Arabic calligraphy of China Islamic Association, made a speech titled “Arabic Calligraphy in Chinese Tradition”. He talked about how Arabic calligraphy was introduced to China, and different types of Chinese traditional style Arabic calligraphy.
Professor Liu Xinlu, Director of School of Arab Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, made comments for Session Two. He said, cultural exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations are not simply the interactions of cultural symbols, but more about empathic resonance brought by in-depth communication in culture and values. Currently, country and areas studies are prevailing, therefore it is essential to leverage the irreplaceable value of language, literature, history, culture, geography and other fields of studies, in order to bring closer people-to-people ties.

Participants at the congress

Session 3 speakers
Session Three “Encounters in Literature, Traditions and Philosophy” was moderated by İpek Coşkun Armağan, General Coordinator of Institute Social, Turkey. Wang Feng, Director and Senior Fellow of International Relations Studies of IWAAS, delivered a speech titled "The Traditional Political Thought of Twelver Shi’ism: its Connotation, Characteristics and Influence". She introduced the three stages in the evolution of Twelver Shi‘ism, and the sources for its traditional political thought that has an impact on the political theory in modern Iran. Professor Yang Guiping from the School of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Minzu University of China, made a speech titled “Historical Experience and Contemporary Practice Between Islamic Culture and Confucianism”. She pointed out that Chinese Islamic Philosophy is historical experience and rich resources of mutual learning among diverse civilizations. The integration of Islamic philosophy and Confucianism has contributed to the contemporary global dialogue among different civilizations and to resolving the conflicts among religions and nationalities.
In his speech “Historical Experience and Contemporary Reflection Between Islamic Culture and Confucianism”, Wang Xi，Associate Researcher of Institute of World Religions, CASS, underscored the achievements of Chinese Islamic Philosophy and its historical limitations, reflections and future development. Murat Yaş, Assistant Professor of Marmara University, Turkey, shared his research outcomes in his speech "Secularism, Law and Development of Islamic Finance: Lessons from Turkey”. He introduced the financial development in Turkey, and concluded that political parties’ interpretation of secularism can support and prevent development of Islamic finance industry.
Qi Qiangfei, Assistant Researcher of IWAAS, in his speech “Towards a Shared Metaphysics: Philosophy in China and Islamic World”, talked about the evolution of Philosophy in the Islamic World, starting from interpreting of scriptures to influences of ancient Greek Philosophy. He also explained how Muslim philosophers make distinction between “essence” and “existence”, and the development of Philosophical Sufism. He concluded that intellectual collaboration between the East and West is the means to address challenges in the new era.
Prof. Han Zhibin, Director of the Middle East Studies Institute, Northwest University, made comments on Session Two. He pointed out that the topics covered today are of quite academic nature, with speakers having insightful discussions on exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. He stated that cultural encounters and mutual learning should not be based on skepticism and denial, but rather on harmony in diversity. Inter-civilization communication should shift from sensibility to rationality, from passive to active role, from necessity to freedom, and from opposition to dialogue. We should respect for diversity of civilizations, and philosophical thinking should be upheld to seek common ground while acknowledging differences.

Group photo
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Highlights of the 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning (1)

The 5th International Congress on “China and the Islamic World: Cultural Encounters and Mutual Learning” was held by the Institute of West-Asian and African Studies (IWAAS), Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) from June 26 to June 27, 2024 in Beijing. The opening remarks were delivered by Zhao Zhimin, General Secretary of CASS, and Zhai Jun, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Affairs, and Former Vice Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China. Mahmut Erol Kılıç, Director General of the Research Center for Islamic History, Art, and Culture (IRCICA) delivered a video speech to the opening ceremony.

Zhao Zhimin is making opening remarks
Zhao Zhimin said, both China and the Islamic world are splendid and time-honoured civilizations with rich and profound connotation. For over a thousand years, friendly exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations play a significant role in relations between China and the Islamic world. Mutual learning between the two major civilizations is not only a valuable experience of friendly interactions, but also the key to promote global development and human progress. Respect for the diversity of civilizations is a precondition for mutual learning. We should protect the diversity of human civilizations in the way we respect for biodiversity of the nature. We should strongly oppose to the notion of cultural superiority, and uphold the richness and diversity of world civilizations. We should understand and respect for the differences between civilizations to fully explore the historical experience of mutual learning among civilizations. We should enhance mutual understanding among different civilizations, and promote people-to-people exchanges by creating a cooperative mechanism that is equal, open and inclusive. In this way we could promote the progress of human civilization, advocate the common values of all humanity, and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind. This congress aims to further promote exchanges between China and the Islamic world through inter-civilization dialogue, to strengthen academic exchanges between think tanks, and foster people-to-people bond. I look forward to seeing experts and scholars to have an in-depth communication and contribute to enhancing mutual learning and exchanges between China and Islamic countries.

Mahmut Erol Kılıç is delivering a video speech to the opening ceremony
Mahmut Erol Kılıç said in his video speech, China and the Islamic world, the two major civilizations that play formative roles in the cultural of historical humanity, also mutually influenced each other in various areas. The relationship between China and the Islamic world have been based on mutual recognition, respect and harmony. The existence of Islamic world resources written by geographers about contact and trade relations with China dated from as early as the 17th Century. Likewise, the first Chinese record on the Islamic world, written by Du Huan in the late 8th Century made contribution to make the Islamic world correctly known in China at an early time. More encounters and mutual learning between China and the Islamic world continued to be produced in the late centuries. Despite of differences in religion, language and social traditions, exchanges between China and Islamic countries have reflected the notion of harmonious coexistence, which has set a good example and offered us rich research material.

Zhai Jun is making opening remarks
Zhai Jun said, as the world’s two major civilization, China and the Islamic world have carried forward their friendly exchanges for a thousands of years, making important contributions to human progress. Historically, mutual learning between Chinese and Islamic civilizations have become a model of harmonious coexistence and friendly exchanges. Since modern times, based on mutual respect and trust, the Chinese and Islamic civilizations have entered a new chapter of inter-civilization exchange, dialogue, inclusiveness and coexistence. He said, we should continue to seek unity in diversity, pursuit harmony in differences, and promote development in exchanges. China is willing to work with the Islamic world to jointly accelerate the implementation of the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), to enhance exchanges of national governance and people-to-people bond, and to advocate the shared values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom for all humankind. We uphold the idea of exchange not estrangement, mutual learning over cultural clashes, and equality instead of superiority.

Participants at the congress

Wu Sike is delivering a keynote speech
Wu Sike, Former Special Envoy on the Middle East Affairs, also Former Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Egypt and Saudi Arabia, made a keynote speech titled “Exchanges and Mutual Learning for a Thousand Years of Friendship, Hand in Hand for a Better Future”. He pointed out that each civilization is a unique cultural entity differentiated from others, but all have contributed to the progress of human civilization. China and the Islamic world have found a pathway to friendly coexistence and win-win cooperation, which becomes a model for forming new types of international relations. This provides valuable experience for other countries to promote inter-civilization exchanges.

Zheng Xiaoyun is delivering a keynote speech
Zheng Xiaoyun, Director-General and Senior Fellow of Institute of World Religions, CASS delivered a keynote speech titled “Continuing to Promote Exchanges and Mutual Understanding Between the Civilizations of China and the Islamic World to Build the Global Community of Shared Future”. She believes that inter-civilization exchanges should be sustainable, and that the exchanges between countries along the Silk Road should be vigorous. In order to promote mutual learning between Chinese and Islamic civilizations, we should focus on the implementation of the GCI, seek for commonalities in people-to-people exchanges, unleash new vitality, and deepen mutual learning among civilizations so as to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

Sadık Ünay is delivering a keynote speech    
Professor Sadık Ünay，academic consultant of IRCICA delivered a speech titled “Alternatives to Neoliberal Development: The Beijing Consensus and Beyond”. He highlighted the postwar approaches to socio-economic development, saying that in the postwar period, developing countries adopt more open systems and decided on their own model of development via policy innovation and experimentation. As different societies in the modern world are in constant search to improve their living standards and industrial-technological capacities, models of socio-economic development constitute a crucial channel of interaction.

Ding Jun is delivering a keynote speech
Professor Ding Jun, Director of the Middle East Studies Institute, Shanghai International Studies University, delivered a speech titled “The Idea of Harmony between Humanity and Nature in the Perspectives of Chinese and Arab Islamic Civilization”. He said, both Chinese and Arab Islamic civilization uphold in the idea of harmony between humanity and nature, which reflects the inclusive and peaceful nature of the two great civilizations. Even in today's world where technology is undergoing rapid development, this idea still carries epoch-making significance and offers valuable reference to all us. They are precious spiritual resources for promoting global development, mutual learning among civilizations and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

İpek Coşkun Armağan is delivering a keynote speech
İpek Coşkun Armağan, General Coordinator of Institute Social, Turkey, made a speech titled “Navigating Change: The Impact of Educational Systems on Societal Transformation”. She underlined the issues brought by modern liberal education in Turkey, such as over-competitiveness and social fragility. She said that educational system reform must be carried out to promote social transformation. Social emotional skills including grit, curiosity, empathy, trust and responsibility should be centralized in education systems, and teachers should become super trained impact agents. Educational reform should be based on our won cultural traditions and national conditions which are differ from the West.

Tang Zhichao is delivering a keynote speech
Tang Zhichao, Director and Senior Fellow of Division of Politics Studies of IWAAS made a speech“The Significance of Strengthening Cooperation between China and the Islamic World from the Perspective of Global South”. He pointed out that China and the Islamic world, both included in the Global South, have in recent years supported each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns. The two sides have achieved fruitful outcomes in cooperation, setting an example for Global South cooperation. It will become a strong force for maintaining world peace and development and ensuring the equality and rationality of global governance. It will also become a model of cooperation for building a community with a shared future for mankind and promoting the harmonious coexistence of different civilizations.

Wang Lincong is moderating the opening ceremony

Participants at the congress
The congress, hosted by IWAAS, was attended by experts and scholars from CASS, Peking University, Minzhu University, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Northwest University and other Chinese universities, along with scholars from Research Center for Islamic History, Art, and Culture (IRCICA), Institute Social of Turkey and Marmara University of Turkey. The congress comprises four sessions: Session 1 “Historical Contacts between China and the Muslim World”, Session 2 “Encounters and Mutual Learning in Arts and Sciences”, Session 3 “Encounters in Literature, Traditions and Philosophy”, and Session 4 “China and the Muslim World in the Contemporary Global System”.
 
 
 

The 2nd Forum on International Students from Africa Held in Beijing

On April 15, 2024, "The 2nd Forum on International Students from Africa,” organized by the China Africa Institute (CAI) and hosted by the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS), was successfully held at the Liangxiang Campus of the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The theme of the forum is "New Youth in the New Era: We Grow Together with China." More than 30 African student representatives from 16 African countries, studying at over ten universities and research institutions in Beijing, Shanghai, Hubei, Hunan, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Liaoning, and other places in China, as well as nearly 100 experts, scholars, teachers, and students from Chinese universities and research institutions, gathered to discuss the mission and responsibilities of young people in the new era of China-Africa relations. H.E. Zhao Zhimin, Secretary-General of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Prof. Zhang Zhengwen, President of the UCASS, representatives of African students, doctoral student at the UCASS, the Ambassador of Ethiopia to China, Tefera Derbew Yimam, and the Ambassador of South Sudan to China, Monday Kunba, attended the opening ceremony and delivered speeches. Prof. Li Xinfeng, Executive President of the China Africa Institute, presided over the opening ceremony of the forum.

Zhao Zhimin is delivering speech
H.E. Zhao Zhimin pointed out that the friendship between China and Africa has a long history, and despite the vast distances separating them, they have always been a community with shared future. Throughout the long history of China-Africa exchanges, youth exchanges and cooperation have been an important part of the sincere friendship between the two sides. Since the beginning of the 21st century, especially in the new era, Chinese and African youth have played a crucial role in the historical process of realizing the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation and achieving national modernization and regional integration in Africa. They have inherited the spirit of friendly cooperation between China and Africa, infusing the virtue of diligence, hard-working, enthusiasm, and vitality of Chinese and African youth into vivid portrayals of friendship in the new era between China and Africa. The joint efforts of Chinese and African youth have empowered the construction of a China-Africa community with shared future with strong youthful energy, characterized by shared responsibilities, win-win cooperation, shared happiness, cultural prosperity, mutual security, and harmonious coexistence.
Zhao Zhimin emphasized that youth are the most active and vibrant force in society, and the hope of a nation lies in its young generation. The future of the Chinese-African relationship also rests on the shoulders of the young generation. The Chinese government has always attached great importance to fully unlocking the role of youth work in supporting and driving the development of China-Africa relations. President Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized the valuable role of youth in deepening China-Africa people-to-people exchanges in his important speeches on China-Africa relations. As the new session of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation is about to be held, the significance of hosting a new session of the Forum on International Students from Africa at this time is extraordinary. We hope that Chinese and African youth will illuminate their youthful ideals, inherit and develop China-Africa friendship, contribute to China and Africa's joint journey towards modernization, carry on historical missions, promote the construction of a more just world order, and contribute wisdom and strength to the construction of a high-level China-Africa community with shared future.

Zhang Zhengwen is delivering speech
Prof. Zhang Zhengwen, President of the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, stated that while China has been developing friendly relations with African countries, it has also been engaging in diverse and colorful exchanges and cooperation in the field of education. Since its establishment, the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences has adhered to an internationalized educational philosophy of openness and integration of Chinese and foreign cultures. It has maintained a small-scale, high-quality model of education for international students, dedicated to cultivating advanced professionals in philosophy and social sciences who are proficient in languages, have solid expertise, and understand cultures, thus fostering friendship and understanding between China and other countries. This forum is a vivid practice in bringing together Chinese and African youth and building a community with shared future between China and Africa. It is hoped that African students can further understand China through this forum, become participants and leaders in China-Africa friendship, and bring new vitality into China-Africa cooperation.

Tefera Derbew Yimam is delivering speech
H.E. Ambassador Tefera Derbew Yimam, the representative of African students and the Ambassador of Ethiopia to China, mentioned that Africa is endowed with abundant natural resources and has enormous potential in various fields. Additionally, the cooperation between Africa and China in human resources development is gaining momentum. In recent years, an increasing number of African youths have come to China for higher education and participated in cultural exchange activities, becoming bridges and links for friendship between China and Africa. China has provided strong support for educational programs for African students, assisting Africa in enhancing its human resource capacity. Ambassador Yimam expressed deep gratitude for this support.

Ambassador Monday Kunba is delivering speech
H.E. Ambassador Monday Kunba, the representative of African students and the Ambassador of South Sudan to China, expressed that the experience of studying in China is of great significance to every African student and to their respective countries, governments, and people. The effectiveness of cooperation between Africa and China is evident in various fields and at all levels, and African students in China are witnesses and participants in this cooperation. Ambassador Kunba hopes that African students will focus on the key issues of Africa-China cooperation, actively engage in Africa's modernization and integration efforts, and contribute to promoting friendship between Africa and China. The young generation is the practioner of African Union's Agenda 2063, and vital forces in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Li Xinfeng is presiding over the opening ceremony
The forum released a new book titled "China in the New Era China in the Eyes of African Students" (in both Chinese and English). Dr. Zhang Mengying, the main editor of the book and Associate Researcher at the CAI, introduced that in 2021, the CAI initiated a theme essay competition titled "In These Ten Years, We Grew Together with China" for African students studying in China, which received enthusiastic responses. From the submissions, the China-Africa Institute selected over 30 outstanding essays, categorized into five chapters: "Impressions of China," "China-Africa Friendship," "China-Africa Cooperation," "Belt and Road Initiative," and "Mutual Learning." These essays were compiled and published under the title " China in the New Era in the Eyes of African Students." The book, from the unique perspective of African students, records the tremendous achievements of China in various aspects such as economics, technology, and culture in the new era. It expresses the love of African students for China and their admiration for China's development miracles, reflecting the increasingly close and pragmatic cooperation between China and Africa in multiple fields, as well as the mutual learning, mutual promotion, and common development between the two sides. The book not only bridges the temporal and spatial distance between China and Africa, promoting the inheritance and development of China-Africa relations and friendly cooperation, but also strengthens the bond between the peoples of China and Africa, especially the younger generation.

Zhang Mengying is introducing the new book

The new book "China in the New Era China in the Eyes of African Students" (in both Chinese and English)
After giving a comprehensive introduction to the new book, Dr. Zhang Mengying announced the second call for essays, themed " Chinese path to modernization in the Eyes of African Students." She warmly welcomed African students studying in China to participate in this essay competition.

Participants at the forum
The forum comprises three sessions: “Adhering to the concept of common development for the well-being of the people in China and African countries” ,“Mutual learning between China and Africa towards modernization” and “Cultivating a harmonious public opinion environment to demonstrate positive international images” .

Wang Xiaoming is presiding over the first session

Speakers of the first session
Wang Xiaoming, Vice President of the CAI, presided over the first session discussion, with eight speakers participating.
During the forum, Kaze Armel, Associate Researcher of China-Africa Economic and Trade Law Research Institute of Xiangtan University, from Burundi, emphasized that further strengthening cooperation between China and Africa in trade, politics, and culture aligns with the common interests of the nearly 2.6 billion people of China and Africa. Associate Professor Sun Zhaoyang, Vice Dean of School of Global Education and Development, UCASS, highlighted the need for China, like many African countries, to develop modernization according to its own national conditions and characteristics. He emphasized that China's modernization path differs from that of developed countries and serves as a new model for developing countries. Egyptian Sinologist Hassan Ragab, Director of the Confucius Institute of Suez Canal University, emphasized the role of international students as cultural ambassadors, inheritors of China-Africa friendship, and promoters of common development. Wang Ting, Lecturer of Beijing Foreign Studies University, shared insights on the significance of education cooperation in promoting common development between China and Africa. Agbo Patience Ndidiamaka, Master’s Student of UCASS, from Nigeria, vividly depicted the diversity, resilience, and shared vision of China-Africa cooperation, using a tapestry as a metaphor. Kakuru Dassy, Doctoral Candidate of Department of Legal Studies of Xiangtan University, from Uganda, discussed the two pillars of China-Africa cooperation: understanding legal frameworks and promoting cultural exchanges. Lalouly Mounia, Doctoral Candidate of Tong Ji University, from Morocco, analyzed healthy international cooperation models and explored new potential for China-Africa cooperation in the new era through empowerment, education, and diversified investment. Dr. Lin Xuefen from China-Africa Institute, reviewing the achievements of China-Africa cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and discussing the far-reaching impact of China-Africa investment cooperation.

Dr. Mendo’o is presiding over the second session

Speakers of the second session
Dr. Mendo’o, Deputy Director of International Exchange Department of China-Africa Business Council, from Cameroon, chaired the second session on “Mutual learning between China and Africa towards modernization,” which featured eight speakers.
Ibrahim Sallieu Jalloh, Doctoral Candidate of China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), from Sierra Leone, emphasized that the friendly cooperation and development between China and Sierra Leone epitomize China-Africa development, offering hopeful prospects for both nations. Associate Professor Huang Juan, Vice Dean of School of Government, UCASS, introduced the modernization of China's governance system and capacity, providing insights into China's experiences for African development. Moumouni Guillaume, Director of International Cooperation, Public Relationship and Concierge Department of School of Political and Juristic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin, analyzed the development of China-Africa cultural and educational exchanges and the challenges they face based on her own experiences studying and working in China. Luo Wenxu, Director of International Students Division of China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), highlighted education as a crucial area of China-Africa cooperation, sharing the achievements of international student training at China University of Geosciences (Wuhan). Agen-Davis Lawrencia, Doctoral Candidate of Tong Ji University, from Ghana, discussed mutual learning between China and Africa in areas such as economic cooperation, cultural exchange, transportation, information sharing, and technology transfer. Safari Ithang Joshua Franco, Master’s Student of UCASS, from South Sudan, emphasized the importance of exchanging knowledge and experiences, communicating between cultures and people, and engaging in political dialogue and strategic partnerships as key dimensions of China-Africa mutual learning. Dr. Li Huiruo from China-Africa Institute, proposed that China-Africa mutual learning is not only a theoretical concept but also a practical method with significant implications, helping both sides address challenges in the complex international environment. Budala Musana, Master’s Student of UCASS, from Uganda, analyzed the importance of enhancing mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation between Uganda and China.

Alpha Mohamed Jalloh is presiding over the third session

Speakers of the third session
Dr. Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, Director of China Africa Institute, University of Makeni, Sierra Leone, chaired the third session on “Cultivating a harmonious public opinion environment to demonstrate positive international images,” featuring seven speakers.
Scheel Mutombo Kianga, Doctoral Candidate of University of International Business and Economics, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, analyzed the important roles of education, culture, and global leadership in building a positive China-Africa international image. Associate Professor Liu Yanhong from UCASS used Huawei's South Africa branch as an example to illustrate the significant role of enterprises in shaping a positive international image. Randol Mardoche Mabandza from the Republic of the Congo, Undergraduate Student of Xidian University, analyzed the deepening of China-Africa relations in various fields based on his own study experience in China. Zhang Linhua, Researcher of African Language Resources Research Center of Tong Ji University, emphasized the role of African students as bridges of China-Africa friendship and witnesses and participants of China-Africa cooperation. Joseph Musampula, Master’s Student of Liaoning University, from Zambia, highlighted his experiences in China as a microcosm of the growth of China-Africa relations and cultural exchanges, reflecting the continuous development and progress of China-Africa relations. Dr. Liu Xuejie from the CAI suggested strengthening media exchanges between China and Africa to enhance mutual understanding, trust and the transmission of positive energy. Mengesha Tadele Mamuye, Doctoral Candidate of UCASS, from Ethiopia, advocated for the promotion of inclusive, open, communicative, and respectful values to facilitate the construction of a harmonious and positive international image for China and Africa.

Zhan Long is presiding over the closing ceremony

Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain is making summary speech


Zhou Yunfan is making summary speech
The closing ceremony of the forum was presided over by Zhan Long, Assistant to the President of UCASS, Executive Dean of School of History. Associate Professor Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain from the School of Biological and Chemical Engineering and School of Foreign Languages, Panzhihua University, from Cote d'Ivoire, and Vice President Zhou Yunfan from the CAI, respectively, delivered summary speeches.
Alain first expressed gratitude to all the speakers and stressed the importance of youth in future China-Africa cooperation. He highlighted how African students have learned from China and the significance of applying these experiences to their own countries' development. He eagerly anticipated deeper cooperation between China and Africa for mutual benefit.
Zhou Yunfan highlighted the forum's focus on common development, mutual learning, and friendship cooperation. She emphasized on China's openness to collaborate with Africa for mutual growth. Stressing the role of youth in bridging cultural gaps, she expressed optimism about their contribution to China-Africa relations. Additionally, she underscored the CAI’s commitment to cooperate with Chinese and African institutions to foster expertise sharing and enhance collaboration for a brighter future.
(Photograph Courtesy of UCASS)

Chinese, French scholars hold cross-cultural talks in Paris

Gao Xiang, president of the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), speaks at a symposium themed "Exchanges and Mutual Learning between the Chinese and French Civilizations: Review and Outlook" in Paris, France, on May 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)
PARIS, May 3 (Xinhua) -- More than 100 scholars from China and France gathered in Paris on Friday for a cross-cultural dialogue at a symposium aiming to deepen exchanges between different civilizations.
The symposium, themed "Exchanges and Mutual Learning between the Chinese and French Civilizations: Review and Outlook" was jointly organized by the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and the Paris-based National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations (Inalco).
In his opening speech, CASS President Gao Xiang said that strengthening mutual learning between Chinese and French civilizations and enriching cultural exchanges are intrinsic requirements for the two countries to promote mutual understanding, build a solid foundation of trust, and deepen partnership.
The "clash of civilizations" theory has resurfaced in the current complex international situation, Gao warned. He called on the two countries to further enhance cultural exchanges and mutual learning to establish a paradigm for harmonious coexistence and win-win cooperation between different civilizations.
China and France, through deepening cooperation and exchanges, and strengthening mutual learning and understanding, will undoubtedly facilitate further implementation of the Global Civilization Initiative which was proposed last year, promote the common progress of different civilizations, enhance the well-being of all mankind, and lay a solid foundation for the sustainable peace and development of the world, Gao said.
Inalco's President Jean-Francois Huchet said France and China have increased academic exchanges in social sciences since the two countries established diplomatic relations 60 years ago. Their research areas have kept expanding to cover languages, cultures, sociology and economics, and bilateral academic cooperation sees immense potential, he added.
Researchers from the two countries held discussions on the practice of cross-cultural exchanges, retrospection and reflection on the mutual enrichment of civilizations, as well as scientific and technological innovation and the future of civilization.
At the opening of the symposium, China Social Sciences Press and the French publishing house You Feng jointly released a series of publications on "Understanding China." On the sidelines of the event was a book exhibition on Chinese-French academic exchanges.

Jean-Francois Huchet, president of the Paris-based National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations (Inalco), speaks at a symposium themed "Exchanges and Mutual Learning between the Chinese and French Civilizations: Review and Outlook" in Paris, France, on May 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

Highlights of the 3rd Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations (2)

 
The 3rd Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations, held on on April 9, 2024 by China-Africa Institute (CAI) consists of two panel sessions.
 

 
 
 

Smail Debech is presiding over Panel 1 discussion 
Panel Session one “Deepening Mutual Understanding Between Chinese and African Civilizations Based on Fine Traditional Culture” was moderated by Smail Debeche, President of Algeria-China Friendship Association, and addressed by 6 speakers. 


Aisha Sani Maikudi is delivering speech

Wen Xian is delivering speech

Allawi Ssemanda is delivering speech
Prof. Aisha Sani Maikudi, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics of the University of Abuja, Nigeria noted that with time-honoured history and splendid civilization, China and Africa share similar pursuit in the development of social order, spiritual beliefs and harmony with nature. The two sides should work to explore digital technologies and online platforms for promoting cultural awareness and appreciation. By celebrating their shared heritage, embracing cultural diplomacy, and engaging in meaningful exchanges, Africa and China can build a bridge toward a harmonious future where fine traditional culture serves as a beacon of wisdom and unity.
Wen Xian, Special Researcher of CAI and Senior Journalist of People’s Daily said, the concept of global peace and development conforms to the trend of the times, but also faces with challenges. Both China and Africa have a strong pursuit of world peace in their civilization and traditional culture. They have always appreciated, learned and benefited from each other, and mutual benefit is an important connotation of China-Africa friendship and cooperation. In the future, China and Africa will continue to promote win-win cooperation on the basis of traditional culture and civilization.
PhD. Allawi Ssemanda, Executive Director of the Development Watch Centre Uganda delivered a speech “China-Africa Cooperation: The Path to Creating an Ideal World and Shared Future for Mankind”. He noted that the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilization Initiative(GCI) are all evidence of China's commitment to working with its partners, including African countries, to address global challenges. China has set a good example for African countries in poverty alleviation, and African countries could find their own development path by learning from China's experience.
He said, the long-arm jurisdiction imposed by western countries went completely against the idea of freedom and democracy. There must be more than one single model of freedom and democracy, and more than one economic development model in the world. China and African countries should explore their development paths in accordance with their own conditions, and seek for the model of freedom and democracy that really suits themselves. Africa should learn from China’s concept of independent development and the development model adapted to its own conditions.

Li Hongfeng is delivering speech

Guillaume Moumouni is delivering speech

Guo Jia is delivering speech
 
Li Hongfeng, Dean and Professor of the School of African Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University believes that the GCI has helped to promoted the mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations. China attaches great importance to the study of African history and culture, while Africa has gained greater say by making connections with Chinese civilization. They have demonstrated its own connotation of civilization in global cultural system, and promoted the common values of all mankind.
Guillaume Moumouni, Assistant Professor and head of the Department of Cooperation, Public Relations and Protocol, Faculty of Law and Political Science, the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin, made a speech “The BRI and the Contribution of Higher Education to Poverty Alleviation in Benin”, focusing on the linkage between higher education and poverty reduction. He conducted a research on the poverty alleviation and development in Guizhou Province, Southwest of China, and pointed out that the major force for technology advancement and economic growth lies on improved knowledge and skilled labour force brought by higher education. Benin would like to learn from China's experience in poverty alleviation, and to explore the integration of industry, education, and research in order to enhance collaboration among the government, universities and organizations, while promoting the sustained development of economy and society.
Guo Jia, Deputy Director and Assistant Research Fellow at the Division of Ethnicity and Religion Studies of CAI said, both Chinese and African civilizations uphold the idea of harmony, inclusiveness, solidarity and mutualism in the relationship between people and between man and nature. This is essentially opposed to the zero-sum game and the so-called Clash of Civilizations theory proposed by Western countries. “Based on fine traditional culture, deepening the mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations” is an important topic in the development of China-Africa relations, the focus of which is to promote people-to-people exchanges and deepen friendship through mutual learning.

Yuan Zhengqing is making comments

Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain  is making comments
Yuan Zhengqing, Research Fellow of Institute of World Economics and Politics, CASS made comments. He said, the principle of equality, inclusiveness and mutual learning stated in the GCI put forward by President Xi Jinping differs from the concept of external expansion adopted by Europe and the United States of America. China and Africa are creating new forms of civilizations in exploring their paths to modernization. Cultural exchanges will transcend estrangement, mutual learning will transcend clashes, and coexistence will transcend feelings of superiority so that human civilizations can make progress. We need to help ourselves by helping others; we need to uphold the beauty of each civilization and the diversity of civilizations in the world; and we need to advocate the principles of mutual benefit and inclusiveness.
Gohi Bi Foua Claude Alain, Associate Professor of Panzhihua University commented that African countries now fully understand the important role of China in the international community, and the discussion at today’s conference brought profound insights into how Africa can grab the current opportunities for development, and promote closer China-Africa cooperation in the future.
 
 

Kizito Nnanda is presiding over Panel 2 discussion 
Panel Session two “Joining Hands to Promote BRI Cooperation by Sharing Development Experience Between China and Africa” was moderated by Kizito Nnanda, Senior Research Fellow of Development Watch Centre, Uganda, and addressed by 6 speakers. 
 

Zhang Zhenke is delivering speech

Yusufu Ali Zoaka is delivering speech

Wang Yongzhong is delivering speech
Zhang Zhenke, Director and Professor of the Center of African Studies, Nanjing University said, the concept of mutual learning among civilizations can help China and Africa work together to address issues in development. The BRI has been supported by many African countries since it was proposed. While sharing ideas and experience in development, China and Africa should explores paths for Africa's independent development. We welcome more and more African friends to exchanges ideas with China.
Yusufu Ali Zoaka, Professor of Policy Analysis and Development Studies at the University of Abuja in Nigeria believed that the keywords for China-Africa cooperation is “sharing” and “joining hands”. The two sides enjoy profound history and greater collaboration in economic trade and people-to-people exchanges. Nigeria has actively participated in the building of BRI which in turn helped Nigeria achieve practical development and greatly benefited the Nigerian people. He believes that China's investment and aid to Africa is a major drive for Africa’s development, technology advancement and poverty alleviation, and will extensively benefit the local people.
Zhang Yongzhong, Director and Research Fellow of International Commodities Division of the Institute of World Economics and Politics (IWEP), CASS, gave a historical overview of Chinese modernization and the significance of its successful experience for Africa. He pointed out that China and Africa should carry out cooperation based on comparative advantages under the BRI framework.

Léon-Marie Nkolo Ndjodo is delivering speech

Zhang Chunyu is delivering speech

Ibrahim Barrie is delivering speech
Léon-Marie Nkolo Ndjodo, Associate Professor of University of Maroua in Cameroon noted that China advocates peaceful development, opposes to confrontation and interference, it upholds the principle of mutual benefit and rejects to form a small circle to keep others out. This is in contrast with the practice of Western countries.
Zhang Chunyu, associate researcher of the CAI believes that China and Africa should enhance cooperation to explore the relationship between government and market, because there is logical and mechanism linkage between an effective market and a well-functioning government. China and Africa should dig into this field in the future.
Ibrahim Barrie, Director for Open, Distance and E-learning, University of Makeni and also Member of Parliament for Bombali District in Sierra Leone said, Infrastructure plays a vital role in economic development and friendly cooperation between China and Africa. The BRI has brought African countries many opportunities for sustainable development. Africa will find a new path to inclusive growth and sustainable development, and China-Africa cooperation under the BRI will promote common prosperity.

Héribert-Label élisée Adjovi is making comments

Wang Qilong is making comments
Héribert-Label élisée Adjovi, Governor of Pan-African Magazine “Le Label Diplomatique” said, China is an important force in Africa's development. Africa's infrastructure aided by China has largely boosted the local economic. China's investment in Africa and China-Africa trade are seen a steady growth, and huge success of China-Africa cooperation were made in areas such digital economy, information technology, healthcare and agriculture.
Wang Qilong, Changjiang Scholar of the Ministry of Education in China and Vice President and Professor of Xi’an International Studies University, made comments. He said, the speeches at today’s conference filled with valuable insights, brought wisdom for China-Africa joint development, and offered inspirations for mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Africa.

Wang Lincong is making closing speech 
Wang Qilong presided over the closing ceremony. Kizito Nnanda, Senior Research Fellow of Development Watch Centre in Uganda, and Wang Lincong, Vice President and Research Fellow of CAI made closing remarks. 
Kizito Nnanda extended his congratulations on the success of the conference and the CAI’s great achievements over the past five years. He said that China and Africa, both developing nations, are searching for the path to modernization, and the two sides should continue to push forward common development through mutual learning among civilizations. 
 

Participants at the conference
 
In his closing speech, Wang Lincong said, the speakers had an in-depth discussion and reached broad consensus at today’s conference, helping deepen their understanding and respect for each other's cultures. Chinese and African civilizations share commonalities and the feature of innovation, injecting force for China-Africa common development and modernization. Therefore, mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations can be seen as a source of innovation as well as the foundation for development and peace. It will gain even stronger momentum in the future under the guidance of the GCI. The CAI will continue to work with African and Chinese experts and scholars to promote the mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations.
 

Highlights of the 3rd Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations (1)

The 3rd Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations was successfully held by China-Africa Institute (CAI) on April 9, 2024 in Beijing, under the theme “Inheritance, Sharing, Development: Toward a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”.  
 
 
 
The opening remarks were delivered by Gao Xiang, president of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and Chinese Academy of History (CAH); Sweta Chaman Saxena, Chief of Staff of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa; Liu Yuxi, Special Representative of the Chinese Government on African Affairs, and Rahamtalla M. Osman, Permanent Representative of the African Union to China. Wang Changlin, Vice President of CASS presided over the opening ceremony.
  
 
 
 
Gao Xiang is delivering speech (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)
  
 
Wang Changlin is presiding over the opening ceremony (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)
  
 
 
 
Gao Xiang said, President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) in March 2023, which provides Chinese wisdom and solutions to address global challenges and shows China's responsibility as a force for peace, stability and progress. China is the largest developing country, and Africa is the continent with the most developing countries in the world. China and Africa have been working together to promote the implementation of the GCI. This has injected new connotations into the long-standing China-Africa friendly cooperation.
  
 
 
 
Guided by the congratulatory letter from President Xi Jinping to the Inauguration of the CAI, and based on the academic platform and talent resources of the CASS, the CAI, a national-level think tank, has made great achievements in academic research, exchanges and communication as well as talent development, helped to promote the mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations, Gao Xiang noted.
  
 
 
 
As a national platform for China-Africa people-to-people exchanges, the Conference on Dialogue Between Chinese and African Civilizations has become CAI’s brand project, highly praised by Africa academics. We hope that both Chinese and African scholars could pool their wisdom and put forward insightful views at the conference so as to jointly promote mutual learning between Chinese and African civilizations, strengthen China-Africa friendship and contribute to the building of a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.
  
 
 
 
Liu Yuxi is delivering speech (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)
 
 
Sweta Chaman Saxena is delivering speech (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)  
 
 
Rahamtalla M. Osman is delivering speech (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)

 
Li Xinfeng is making presentation (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)
  
 
 
 
Liu Yuxi said, under the guidance of Chinese and African leaders, China-Africa unity has embarked on a even broader path to development with increasing people-to-people exchanges, acting as the pioneer for building a community with a shared future for mankind. A China-Africa high-level community with a shared future is based on equality, characterized by the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and focuses on fairness and justice, openness and inclusiveness. The ninth FOCAC will be held later this year, and China is willing to work with Africa to take the forum as a new start and continue to deepen China-Africa relations, so as to inject stability and optimism for global peace and development.
  
 
 
 
Sweta Chaman Saxena said, President Xi Jinping announced the Global Development Initiative (GDI) which underlines the International consensus on putting development first, and the people around the world stay confident in realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030. The theme of this conference “Inheritance, Sharing, Development: Toward a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future” underscores the issues that are at the centre of sustainable development.
  
 
 
 
Indeed, eliminating poverty has always been an international goal for sustainable development. China has made major achievements in eliminating poverty and contributed greatly to global poverty alleviation. China’s experience offers valuable reference for Africa. Africa enjoys a long history, rich resources and talent resources. It needs to know about its cultural values, leaders and comparative advantage to achieve inclusive growth and eliminate poverty, he noted.
  
 
 
 
Rahamtalla M. Osman pointed out that cultural inheritance plays an important role in mutual learning between Chinese and African civilization. Firstly, both Africa and China enjoyed splendid civilization, which has paved the way for bilateral exchanges and high-level development. Secondly, Africa and China enjoyed a long history of friendly cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. The two sides should carry forward the tradition of communication and cooperation and bring more stability to future development.
 
 
Participants at the conference (Chinese Social Sciences Net/Zhu Gaolei)
  
 
At the opening ceremony, Li Xinfeng made a presentation on the Five-Year achievement of the CAI. He said, the CAI has remained true to its original inspiration to promote China-Africa relations over the past five years. It has successfully launched academic exchange platforms, and dedicated to making breakthrough of producing more high-quality talent achievements through planning, organizing, and managing projects of individual and group researches on African studies as well as China-Africa partnership.
  
 
 
 
Soon after the CAI was established, the research team “Xi Jinping and Africa” was formed, specializing in academic research, policy interpretation and International communication on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The CAI has now finished compiling Selected Speeches and Writings of Xi Jinping on Africa, Series of China and Africa in the New Era (both Chinese and English versions), Research Reports on the Elimination of Poverty in China (both Chinese and English versions), and 100 Cases of Targeted Poverty Alleviation in China: Volumes I-III (Chinese, English and French versions).
  
 
 
 
The Research Reports on the Elimination of Poverty in China (English version) were collected by the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) as the exhibits to celebrate the CPC’s centenary. The CAI by now has published 25 monographs, 19 translation books, 16 books of research paper series and 3 almanacs of African Studies in China, making positive contribution to the building of systems of discipline, academic researches, and discourse with Chinese characteristics.
  
 
 
 
The CAI has also built up its own database publishing academic achievements of the institute. At the present, the CAI is also conducting two major research projects. The first major research project is the newly compiled General History of Africa (Multi Volume), which is also one of the key projects funded by National Social Science Fund. The second major research project is Xi Jinping Thought on Culture and Building of Modern Chinese and African Civilizations, which is one of the major research projects to interpret Chinese modern civilization funded by the CASS. To mark the 5th anniversary of its establishment, the CAI has also launched its new official website accessible in both Chinese and English.
 
 
Zhang Yuyan is delivering speech
 
The keynote speeches session was moderated by Zhang Yuyan, member of CASS and Director-General of Institute of World Economics and Politics, CASS, and delivered by Li Xiangyang, Director and Research Fellow of National Institute of International Strategy, CASS; Paul Tembe, Founder and Director of SELE Encounters; Wu Guobao, Research Fellow of Rural Development Institute, CASS, and Hassan Ragab, Executive Director of Confucius Institute of Suez Canal University in Egypt.
 
 
 
Li Xiangyang is delivering speech　　
Li Xiangyang said, the development orientation of the BRI determines that it does not set rules as a threshold during its initial stage, thus providing opportunities for developing countries to participate in international economic cooperation. It is not an alternative, but a synergy for the current global governance system, as the two both require detailed planning. The development orientation of the BRI is based on infrastructure connectivity, which helped to encourage investment from global powers to address the long-standing issue of inadequate provision of infrastructure in the international community. Unlike commercial cooperation or foreign aid, the diversified cooperation mode under the framework of BRI laid a foundation for underdeveloped member countries to develop new comparative advantages.
 

Paul Tembe is delivering speech
 
Paul Tembe noted that strategic communication, intercultural communication and communicate platform are important factors. Currently, with improving bilateral relations, China and South Africa should exchanges ideas and learn from each other in order to meet the needs of high-quality development in the new era. We should strengthen studies on Xi Jinping's Thought on Governance and theory studies and research on the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith. The BRI and other three global initiatives have injected confidence and impetus into global development, in which the inheritance and development of civilizations and cultures is an important focus for building harmonious and friendly relations. China and Africa should continue to carry out practical cooperation under the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith, with focus on the inheritance, sharing and development of civilization, for the building of a higher level China-Africa community with a shared future.

Wu Guobao is delivering speech  
 
 
 
Wu Guobao said, China’s success in poverty alleviation is closely related to the time, and the political system and governance system with Chinese characteristics. There are many factors and experience that China could share with other countries, such as how to maintain social stability, how to encourage impoverish population with working abilities to be independent, and how to introduce targeted poverty alleviation. China’s experience offers valuable reference for African countries and other developing countries, contributing positively to global poverty alleviation.
 

Hassan Ragab is delivering speech
 
Hassan Ragab said, under the framework of the BRI that was proposed one decade ago, China and Egypt have laid a solid foundation in political mutual trust, and reached a series of consensus on deepening cooperation through close high-profile visit and strategic dialogue. Chinese and Egypt economic structure is complementary, bringing advantages and potentials for cooperation between the two sides. China and Egypt have deepened cooperation in culture, education, technology, tourism and other areas. The two sides will continue to work together to improve International cooperation mechanisms, promote the reform of international order, safeguard the common interest of developing countries, and to create a new international platform for BRI cooperation.