Foreign Minister Wang Yi has started his annual Wang Yi Africa tour, visiting Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho. This yearly trip highlights China’s push to deepen ties across the continent.
Notably, his Somalia stop is the first by a Chinese foreign minister since the 1980s. The visit comes after Israel recognized Somaliland—a move that challenges Somalia’s sovereignty. In response, Beijing reaffirmed its support for Mogadishu.
Moreover, China sees the Gulf of Aden as a vital trade route. It leads to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal—key paths for Chinese goods heading to Europe. By backing Somalia, Beijing aims to protect its maritime interests.
Further south, the Wang Yi Africa tour includes Tanzania. This country is central to China’s quest for access to Africa’s copper reserves. Chinese firms are now upgrading the Tazara Railway, which runs into Zambia.
Just last November, Premier Li Qiang visited Zambia—the first Chinese premier to do so in 28 years. The railway project offers an alternative to the U.S.- and EU-backed Lobito Corridor. That route connects Zambia to Atlantic ports via Angola and the DRC.
Thus, China uses infrastructure as both an economic and strategic tool. Meanwhile, Wang’s stop in Lesotho highlights Beijing’s free trade message.
In 2024, President Xi Jinping promised tariff-free access to China’s $19 trillion economy for the world’s poorest nations. Lesotho, with a GDP of just over $2 billion, qualifies for this benefit.
This support matters greatly. Last year, Lesotho faced U.S. tariffs as high as 50% on its exports under Trump-era policies. Therefore, China’s offer provides real economic relief.
It also counters Western protectionism with a message of openness. As a result, Beijing strengthens its image as a reliable partner for vulnerable economies.
In sum, the Wang Yi Africa tour is more than symbolic. It advances China’s goals: securing resources, protecting trade routes, and building goodwill. Through diplomacy and development, China continues expanding its African influence—one nation at a time.
