China, Mozambique upgrade ties to 'shared future' partnership, expand strategic cooperation

BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo on Tuesday agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a “China-Mozambique community with a shared future in the new era,” marking a new phase in strategic cooperation.

The agreement came during talks in Beijing as President Chapo undertook a state visit to China from April 16 to 22. He arrived in the capital after visiting Hunan and Qinghai provinces.

President Xi said the two countries had built strong mutual trust since establishing diplomatic ties, calling their relationship a model of China-Africa friendship and South-South cooperation. He noted that deepening cooperation aligned with the shared aspirations of both nations and the broader goal of strengthening solidarity across the Global South.

China, he said, was ready to work with Mozambique to implement outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and advance joint modernization efforts. Xi emphasised stronger coordination on core interests, expanded institutional exchanges, and deeper collaboration across multiple sectors.

Highlighting economic complementarities, Xi pointed to opportunities in infrastructure, energy and mineral development, as well as emerging sectors such as agriculture, new energy, the digital economy and artificial intelligence. He stressed the importance of aligning development strategies to promote sustainable and high-quality growth.

On global issues, Xi called for enhanced coordination at the United Nations and other international platforms to support a more equitable multipolar world and inclusive globalisation. He also urged joint efforts to address the spillover effects of conflicts, including those in the Middle East, and reiterated the need for ceasefires and dialogue to resolve disputes.

The Chinese president announced that from May 1, China would implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, further expanding market access for African exports.

President Chapo welcomed the elevation of ties, describing his visit as a reflection of the strong and brotherly relationship between the two countries. He reaffirmed Mozambique’s commitment to the one-China policy and support for China’s national reunification.

He expressed readiness to deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture and energy, and endorsed key Chinese initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative and global development frameworks proposed by Beijing.

Following the talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of more than 20 cooperation agreements covering Belt and Road collaboration, security, trade, cultural exchanges, healthcare and media. A joint statement was also issued, outlining the roadmap for future cooperation.