ALPHA MOHAMED JALLOH –DIRECTOR CHINA AFRICA INSTITUTE UNIVERSITY OF MAKENI
WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM FOCAC
Introduction
South – South Cooperation (SSC) is a fundamental pillar that seeks to address the injustices of the past and rigorously find a constructive pathway of truth and reconciliation for the good of the world. So many ugly situations had happened and continued to happen with impunity. If these injustices are not addressed relative peace will be a serious challenge. A community of civilized nations come together to deeply look at the wrongs of yesterday , today and how best to bring a lasting new order that seeks the interest of all , not just a few. In that regard China and Africa has suffered the most horrible injustices and by coincident refer to as the third world countries. With our collective voices to address this potential threat that we are faced with, for far too long; we have witnessed hegemony in all aspect at the international scene. This has to be stopped by leaders of the South –South Cooperation in order to realize our full potentials that will translate to the development of our countries.
South- South cooperation must explore more on the frame –work on, trade, infrastructure, health, education and technology for the interest of our people, which could bring peace and stability. China has demonstrated its willingness to work with African countries in diverse field of trade, all geared towards promoting a win – win situation for the good of mankind, in that light we should work and stand together for the growth and development of both China and Africa.
This year 2024 September FOCAC meeting would be a year of action for the full implementation of the theme ‘Joining hands to Advance Modernization and build a high level China –Africa community with a shared future. The road map is clear and there had been commitment on both sides to follow the action plan. Since the establishment of this August body it is over 24 years, the forum has adhered to the principles of planning together, building together and benefitting together and above all advancing the development of the Forum and implementation of its outcomes, propelling China Africa relations to make great strides forward and achieve leapfrog development. This year theme resonates with the zest to see change and take practical actions with a specific timeline.
The leaders of China and Africa will discuss pertinent issues such as state governance, industrialization, agricultural modernization, peace and security, high quality Belt and Road Cooperation as well as the eighth conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs and other related activities. These are planned activities with a clear pathway to achieve its intended purpose. China and Africa must ensure they adhere to the outcomes of the meeting and fully implement the agreed communiqué.
We expect in state governance each country has its sovereign powers and must be respected, the issue of Taiwan which is part of China should be emphasized and seek the complete withdrawal of the western powers from supporting Taiwan and allow the due process of Taiwan to return to its country of origin, we expect FOCAC to take position on this and followed by practical measures with immediate effect for the smooth transition of Taiwan to the Chinese people. On the same accord we would like African countries to consider having visa free among African countries just like what Kenya has started to implement. African Countries have similar concerns and we hope to see a genuine road map based on sincerity and integrity that seeks to address poverty.
In the free trade agreement we have seen a great reduction on bureaucracy in the trade sector, we applaud the Chinese embassies in Africa in facilitating visa for African countries to come and do business in China. In Africa today the largest trading partner we do have is China, and so far we are happy with the reforms and innovation that has been employed in the business domain. We speak to many Africans doing business in China; they are satisfied with the Chinese market and it is our hope during the FOCAC deliberations to make it known.
Institutional reforms and Capacity building for African countries is very critical factor that has to be paid attention to, we have seen a lot of Africans who over the years have acquired skills from China to set up their businesses in Africa, we would like to see an increase in scholarship opportunities given to African Citizens in order for us to position our youthful population in the trajectory of development.
China and Africa must come up with a comprehensive package on ‘Africa feeds itself,’ no nation can prosper if you can’t feed yourself, in that direction Chinese has the expertise and technological advancement to help Africa feeds itself, all we need to do is to engage the Chinese to transfer skills, while Arica has the arable land that fits for purpose. With this integrated effort the ‘feed Africa’ will be something of the past.
