BEIJING, Jan 28 (ABC): Chinese President Xi Jinping has written to veterans of Zimbabwe’s national liberation war, praising their lifelong commitment to friendship between China and Africa.
In his letter, Xi said the veterans devoted their youth to the struggle for national liberation. He noted that they left their homeland and forged a deep bond with China during that period.
He said their continued dedication to China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa relations remains deeply moving.
Xi highlights China-Africa ties
Xi said 2026 will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and African countries. He also described the year as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Over the past seven decades, he said, China has stood as a reliable partner in Africa’s efforts for national liberation, development and renewal.
Xi added that China and African countries have supported each other, faced challenges together and advanced cooperation toward modernization.
Focus on future cooperation
Xi said China is ready to use the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as an opportunity to deepen traditional friendship.
He said both sides should work together to build a stronger future for China-Africa relations.
Xi also expressed hope that the veterans would inspire more African youth to support China-Zimbabwe and China-Africa friendship.
Message ahead of Chinese New Year
As the Chinese New Year of the Horse approaches, Xi said China and Africa should carry forward the tireless spirit symbolized by the dragon and the horse.
He said both sides should work together to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.
Veterans express appreciation
The veterans recently wrote to Xi to thank China for its support during Zimbabwe’s national liberation struggle.
They praised his leadership of the Communist Party of China and the Chinese people in achieving major development progress.
They also expressed pride in the all-weather Zimbabwe-China community with a shared future and pledged to continue promoting friendship between the two countries.