China has pledged $140 million in military aid to African nations, underscoring its commitment to enhancing the continent’s security and capacity building. The announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a joint press conference with Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, as reported by Nigerian media.
“We will work to advance the partnership action for common security and […] help train 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police and law enforcement personnel for African countries,” Wang Yi stated.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by China to strengthen its strategic partnerships in Africa, focusing on both security and economic development. Wang emphasized China’s dedication to ensuring Africa’s economic security through development, citing the $49 billion financial support package announced at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in September 2024.
This military aid package reflects China’s growing role in Africa’s security landscape. The funds will be directed toward enhancing African countries’ defense capabilities and supporting law enforcement training. This aligns with China’s long-standing policy of non-interference, which prioritizes cooperation over direct intervention in domestic affairs.
China’s influence in Africa has expanded significantly in recent years through investments in infrastructure, energy, and trade. The latest commitment to military and security support signals a shift towards a more comprehensive engagement strategy, addressing both economic and security challenges.
The pledge comes at a time when many African nations face increasing security threats, including terrorism, armed conflicts, and transnational crime. By bolstering local capacities, China aims to contribute to regional stability, which is critical for the success of its investments and the long-term growth of its partnerships across the continent.
This development highlights China’s continued prioritization of Africa as a strategic partner and its evolving role in addressing the continent’s complex challenges.
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