Promoting Mutual Understanding Between Civilizations
Recently, a significant thematic forum titled "Enhancing Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations to Perpetuate the Traditional China-Africa Friendship" took place in Beijing, drawing participation from dozens of mayors and representatives from various African nations, including Morocco and Senegal. This event was part of the Global Mayors' Dialogue 2026, organized by the Information Office of the State Council and co-chaired by the World Federation of Tourist Cities along with the municipal information office of Beijing. The forum aimed at fostering deeper connections and understanding between cultures, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in strengthening the longstanding ties between China and Africa.
Opportunities for Development and Cultural Preservation
Sui Xiaofeng, the Vice President of the Haidian District Government in Beijing, emphasized that in recent years, Haidian has been actively expanding its trade relations with Africa. Looking ahead, he expressed the district's commitment to leveraging the opportunities presented by the China-Africa Year of Cultural and Human Exchanges to enhance the implementation of advanced scientific and technological outcomes in Africa. Khalid Fataoui, the representative of the mayor of Marrakech, underscored the significance of preserving diverse heritage while integrating artificial intelligence technologies to boost local industries and regional development. He noted that China's approach to maintaining, valuing, and promoting its own traditional culture serves as a model that can inspire similar initiatives in Africa.
The forum also highlighted how the exchanges between Chinese and African youth play a pivotal role in bilateral cooperation. El Hadji Saer Faye, the Deputy Mayor of Ziguinchor, Senegal, pointed out that through the Sino-African Digital Cooperation Project, Senegal has opened dedicated pathways for young entrepreneurs in the cross-border e-commerce sector. He further added that Chinese e-commerce platforms have enabled local artisanal and agricultural products to cross continental borders, reaching global markets and enhancing economic opportunities for local producers.
As reported by french.china.org.cn.
