From January 7 to 12, China’s minister of foreign affairs, Wang Yi, will be on official visit in five African countries. These are: Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Congo Republic and Nigeria.

According to the official’s spokesperson, Gene Shuang, who made the announcement, “China's diplomacy is rooted in strengthening relations with developing countries, including those in Africa” Xinhua reports.

During his visit, the Minister will talk about commitments between China’s President, Xi Jinping, and African leaders and the results of the China-Africa Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mr Geng added.

At the summit, China announced 10 major plans for China-Africa cooperation, over three years, backed by a $60 billion pledge.

“The foreign minister's first trip of every year usually takes him to Africa, a practice that has been in existence for over two decades, already establishing itself as a fine diplomatic tradition,” the spokesperson added.

Stéphane Alidjinou