China and Africa reaffirm global south solidarity in Changsha Declaration

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2025 (FMC) – China, 53 African countries, and the African Union Commission have adopted the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South, reaffirming commitments from the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

The declaration was finalized during the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of FOCAC follow-up actions, held June 10–12 in Changsha, China. The meeting gathered representatives to advance the full implementation of the Beijing Declaration on building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the declaration “recognizes the rise of the Global South as the trend of the times and the future of development” and calls on all countries “to build a community with a shared future for mankind” through initiatives like the Belt and Road and the Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives.

The statement condemns “unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying” as major challenges for African and developing countries, urging “all countries, the United States in particular, to return to resolving trade disputes through consultation based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.” It calls for increased development assistance to Africa, not unilateral cuts.

China’s role was praised, highlighting its “courage and resolve to defend international equity and justice and safeguard international economic and trade order.” The declaration calls on the international community to “uphold true multilateralism,” defend the U.N.-centered system and WTO-based trading order, and promote more inclusive economic globalization.

On trade, China committed to expanding zero-tariff treatment on all tariff lines to all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties (except Eswatini), alongside enhanced market access, inspection, and customs facilitation for Africa’s least developed nations.

The declaration also prioritizes cooperation in green industry, e-commerce, science and technology, AI, security, finance, and the rule of law, supporting Africa’s Agenda 2063.

The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation was hailed as “a fine example of Global South solidarity,” with plans for a 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges to strengthen ties.