In a meeting held in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki emphasized the significance of the strong relationship between their nations in bolstering peace in the Horn of Africa region and pursuing mutually beneficial development. The strategic importance of Eritrea, with its location on the Red Sea, highlights its role as a vital gateway connecting key shipping corridors, such as the Suez Canal and the Indian Ocean. This blog post explores the deepening friendship between China and Eritrea and its implications for regional stability and international cooperation.
Shared Friendship and Long-Term Interests: President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Eritrea, emphasizing the trust, support, and mutual understanding that have characterized the bilateral relations for the past 30 years. China recognizes Eritrea’s adherence to an independent foreign policy and stands firmly with the country in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests. This unwavering support underscores the shared values of independence and the pursuit of national development paths that suit each country’s unique circumstances.
Strategic Importance of Eritrea: Located in the northernmost part of East Africa and bordering several countries in the region, Eritrea holds a strategically important position in the Horn of Africa. Its proximity to Ethiopia, Sudan, Djibouti, and Yemen, as well as its access to the Red Sea, contributes to its unique influence and significance. Moreover, Eritrea shares a border with Djibouti, where China established its first overseas naval base in 2017. This positioning allows China to strengthen its presence and contribute to regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
Promoting Development and Infrastructure: China’s commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation and development with Eritrea is evident through various initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. President Xi expressed China’s willingness to further strengthen cooperation in infrastructure construction, telecommunications, agriculture, mining, fisheries, healthcare, and governance. Such collaboration aligns with Eritrea’s aspirations for high-quality development and the peaceful and stable progress of the Horn of Africa.
China’s Support for Africa: China’s emphasis on its relationship with Eritrea signals its broader commitment to Africa and the developing world. In contrast to the pressure and disruptions from hegemonic powers, China has consistently demonstrated a different approach by prioritizing peace, development, and cooperation. As the United States exerts influence in the region, China’s engagement with African countries signifies its determination to support the aspirations of African nations and uphold international fairness and justice.
A Special Bond: President Isaias Afwerki expressed his deep appreciation for the enduring support provided by the Chinese people during Eritrea’s struggle for independence and liberation. Having received military education and training in China in 1967, President Afwerki shares a special connection with the country. This long-standing friendship and shared values enable China and Eritrea to jointly oppose power politics and hegemony, contributing to the common interests of developing countries worldwide.
China’s strong and enduring relationship with Eritrea plays a pivotal role in promoting regional peace and development in the Horn of Africa. By embracing mutual trust, cooperation, and support, China and Eritrea stand as examples of how countries can work together to achieve shared goals despite the complexities of the global landscape. As China continues to strengthen its friendship with African nations, it sends a resounding message that it stands firmly with developing countries and upholds international fairness and justice.