Historic Meeting Between Xi Jinping and Sao Tome and Principe’s PM in Beijing
Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Sao Tome and Principe’s Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on September 5, 2024. The meeting marked a significant moment in the relationship between China and the island nation of Sao Tome and Principe. Prime Minister Trovoada’s visit coincided with the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), highlighting the growing ties between China and African countries.
Elevation of Bilateral Ties to a Strategic Partnership
During their meeting, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Trovoada announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. This decision underscores the commitment of both nations to deepening cooperation and mutual support. President Xi emphasized that Sao Tome and Principe’s return to the China-Africa family of friendly cooperation aligns with the shared interests of both peoples. China reiterated its support for Sao Tome and Principe in advancing national construction and economic development, highlighting the importance of strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Strengthening Exchanges and Enhancing Strategic Mutual Trust
President Xi Jinping called on both China and Sao Tome and Principe to firmly adhere to the overall direction of friendship, strengthen exchanges of experience on governance and administration, and consolidate and enhance strategic mutual trust. By exploring cooperation in areas such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries, and infrastructure, Sao Tome and Principe can benefit more from the outcomes of the FOCAC summit. President Xi expressed China’s willingness to strengthen communication and coordination with Sao Tome and Principe on international and regional issues to safeguard the common interests of both countries and other developing nations.
Prime Minister Trovoada expressed his gratitude to China for its valuable assistance in the economic development of Sao Tome and Principe. He particularly appreciated the partnership actions announced by President Xi at the opening ceremony of the FOCAC summit, which he believed would strongly promote the development of both Sao Tome and Principe and Africa. Sao Tome and Principe reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China principle and expressed support for President Xi’s important concepts and initiatives, such as building a community with a shared future.
Building Stronger Ties Through Economic Cooperation
The meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Trovoada highlighted the potential for increased economic cooperation between China and Sao Tome and Principe. Both leaders recognized the importance of exploring new avenues for collaboration in areas such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries, and infrastructure. By leveraging each other’s strengths and resources, China and Sao Tome and Principe can create mutually beneficial opportunities for economic growth and development.
President Xi emphasized China’s continued support for Sao Tome and Principe in advancing its national construction and economic development. By working together on strategic projects and initiatives, both countries can unlock new possibilities for cooperation and partnership. Prime Minister Trovoada expressed his appreciation for China’s assistance in the economic development of Sao Tome and Principe, highlighting the positive impact of Chinese investments and partnership actions on the country’s growth.
Commitment to a Shared Future and Strategic Cooperation
President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Trovoada reiterated their commitment to building a community with a shared future and enhancing strategic cooperation between China and Sao Tome and Principe. By aligning their interests and priorities, both nations can work together to address common challenges and pursue shared goals. President Xi’s vision of a community with a shared future resonated with Prime Minister Trovoada, who emphasized Sao Tome and Principe’s firm commitment to the one-China principle and support for China’s initiatives.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Trovoada in Beijing marked a significant step forward in the relationship between China and Sao Tome and Principe. The elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership reflects the deepening cooperation and mutual support between the two nations. By strengthening exchanges, enhancing strategic mutual trust, and exploring new opportunities for economic cooperation, China and Sao Tome and Principe can build a stronger foundation for long-term partnership and collaboration.
