By the China-Cameroon Friendship Association (AACC) and the China-Francophone Africa Observatory (OCAF)
BEIJING, October 11, 2024 — Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over the International Friendship Conference in Beijing, which we attended, an event celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC). This conference gathered nearly 200 international attendees, including former political leaders, members of royal families, and representatives from international cooperation organizations. The meeting highlighted Xi Jinping’s vision of a « community with a shared future » and the essential role of people-to-people diplomacy in strengthening international relations.
Renewed Commitment to Friendship Between Nations
In his opening speech, President Xi Jinping underscored the foundational importance of friendship between nations for global stability and prosperity. Reflecting on China’s 75 years of development since the founding of the People’s Republic, he noted that such progress would not have been possible without the support of numerous international partners. « We will always remember your important contributions to China and the sincere friendship developed with the Chinese people, » Xi stated.
Emphasizing the CPAFFC’s central role in building ties between nations, Xi reaffirmed that people-to-people diplomacy is essential for creating a fairer and more peaceful world. This approach, he explained, should serve as a model in the current context of global transformations.
Building a Community with a Shared Future for Humanity
In his address, Xi Jinping spoke about today’s global challenges and called for creating a « community with a shared future for humanity. » His vision includes three key areas:
- Shared Responsibility: Xi said, “We must build broad consensus on creating a community with a shared future for humanity,” based on values such as peace, development, and justice. He advocated for a multipolar world characterized by equality and an inclusive globalization.
- Win-Win Cooperation: Xi reiterated that China’s modernization does not aim for self-centered growth. He encouraged foreign nations to actively participate in this process, fostering shared prosperity and global peaceful development.
- Dialogue Between Civilizations: Xi Jinping championed a model of diplomacy that values intercultural exchange. Citing China’s longstanding openness, he promoted the Global Civilization Initiative to replace conflicts with constructive dialogue.
Xi concluded by stating that Chinese diplomacy serves the people, and the Chinese government will fully support the CPAFFC in its mission of fostering international friendship and pragmatic cooperation.
Remarks from Honorary Guests
Among the distinguished guests, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former President of Thailand’s National Assembly, Bhokin Bhalakula, expressed their admiration for China’s rapid development under Xi Jinping’s leadership. They praised initiatives like the « Belt and Road Initiative » as visionary steps toward a more interconnected and cooperative world. China, they affirmed, has become a beacon of hope for developing countries, demonstrating that absolute poverty can be eradicated and inclusive growth achieved.
A Message of Peace and Prosperity for the World
The International Friendship Conference and the CPAFFC’s 70th anniversary illustrate China’s commitment to promoting people-to-people diplomacy to support international cooperation. By inviting partners worldwide to join its modernization, China positions itself as a responsible player, aiming to build a united humanity based on shared values. Guided by Xi Jinping, this approach steers international relations toward a future rooted in solidarity, respect, and shared prosperity.
Outlook and Next Steps
As the world stands at a historical crossroads, the conference demonstrated that people-to-people diplomacy can play a leading role in addressing global challenges. Under Xi Jinping’s leadership and with CPAFFC’s support, China is committed to fostering friendly and peaceful relations while offering partner nations mutually beneficial development opportunities. This international dialogue marks a new chapter in China’s efforts toward a shared future, and the CPAFFC will continue to strengthen these ties in the years to come.
PR. JIMMY YAB
President of the China-Cameroon Friendship Association (AACC) and the China-Francophone Africa Observatory (OCAF).
Jimmy Yab 