Today, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology are advancing at a rapid pace, sparking a new wave of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. Recently, the World Intellectual Property Organization released the 2025 Global Innovation Index Ranking of the World’s Top 100 Innovation Clusters. Notably, 24 innovation clusters in China made the list—ranking first globally for the third consecutive year. Among them, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster claimed the top spot worldwide for the first time, fully reflecting China's remarkable progress and growing strength in innovation.
We are also delighted to see Cairo, Egypt, which became the first African city to enter the top 100 innovation clusters in 2024, rising further this year to 83rd. Additionally, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya have emerged as Africa’s four major fintech hubs, helping the continent become the fastest-growing fintech market in the world.
These achievements are closely linked to the strong emphasis placed on science and technology innovation at the strategic level by both the African Union and individual African nations. The AU has rolled out key initiatives such as the Action Plan for the Accelerated Industrial Development of Africa, the Digital Transformation Strategy for African, and the Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy. These plans have created a solid foundation for Africa to seize new industrial opportunities, share the fruits of global technological innovation, and bridge the digital divide.
China has consistently regarded Africa as a vital partner in international cooperation and scientific innovation. Under the strategic guidance of Chinese and African leaders—and with robust support from platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)—China-Africa science and technology cooperation is thriving, yielding tangible and impactful results.
First, Cooperation platforms are continually strengthened. Science and technology cooperation has become a new driver of China-Africa relations. China has launched the International Science and Technology Cooperation Initiative and established high-level exchange mechanisms such as the Belt and Road Science and Technology Exchange Conference and the China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Conference. Platforms like the China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Center and the China-Africa Joint Research Center continue to build consensus and deepen partnerships in innovation.
Second, Key projects have produced significant outcomes. China and African countries have collaborated on a wide range of impactful projects—from developing high-yield crop varieties adapted to African climates, to advancing disease prevention and control, particularly in malaria and HIV/AIDS research. Other areas of cooperation include digital infrastructure, mobile payment technologies, space exploration through the Belt and Road Space Information Corridor, and renewable energy solutions that address livelihood needs. The increasing adoption of new energy vehicles is another example of the growing partnership. These joint efforts are helping Africa enhance its self-reliance and improve the well-being of its people.
Third, Talent exchange has been deepened greatly. Tens of thousands of young African scholars and technicians have participated in training and research programs in China. Initiatives such as the China-Africa Science and Technology Partnership Program 2.0, the Technical Training Course for Developing Countries, and the International Young Talents Program have established a multi-level system for science, technology, and cultural exchange, helping train a new generation of local scientific and technical experts and injecting fresh momentum into Africa’s innovation landscape.
On September 25, the Chinese Mission to the African Union, the African Union Commission, and the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, among others, co-hosted the first China-Africa Scientific and Technological Innovation Cooperation Day at the AU headquarters. On the same day, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ethiopian Ministry of Innovation and Technology, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the African Telecommunications Union held the China-Africa Digital and Emerging Industries Cooperation Seminar in Addis Ababa. These events clearly demonstrate China’s strong commitment and capability to support Africa’s innovation efforts and the development of its emerging industries—working hand in hand toward modernization.
As the world evolves and new challenges arise, international cooperation on governance must also adapt. Earlier this month, President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Governance Initiative. The African Union has spoken highly of and fully endorsed this initiative.
China stands ready to work with African partners to seize opportunities, confront challenges, and jointly strengthen governance in digitalization and artificial intelligence.
In today’s complex and unpredictable global landscape, some major countries have adopted unilateral actions such as imposing tariffs, cutting aid, and disrupting supply chains, all of which have seriously impacted Africa’s economic and social development.
In contrast, China, as a responsible major country, will continue to faithfully implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and fully support Africa’s development.
China is committed to working closely with the African Union and its member states to align the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Strategy on Science, Technology and Innovation (2034).
Together, we aim to plan and implement projects that promote inclusive growth and sustainable development, and to build a China-Africa community with a shared future—an enduring partnership that meets global uncertainty with the resilience of China-Africa cooperation.
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