China and Africa: New Steps in Mining Partnership

On 13 October 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping shared a four-point plan for improving China-Africa mining cooperation. He did this during a meeting with President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana, who was visiting China. This plan responds to changes in the global critical minerals market and Africa’s need for independent growth. It is also based on the long-standing friendship between China and Africa, setting the direction for future mining cooperation.

As the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, I see the importance of these four points. They show a clear vision for a China-Africa community with shared goals. They also support Nigeria and other African nations in turning their natural resources into development benefits. I want to share insights on how this four-point plan connects with China-Nigeria mining cooperation.

First, we must agree that African resources belong to Africa. This is key for mining partnerships with African countries. For too long, Africa has been stuck at the bottom of global industrial and value chains due to unfair international practices. This is a historical wrong that needs fixing. Controlling their resources is essential for African nations to achieve sustainable development. China respects Africa’s goals and supports countries in choosing their development paths. We are ready to share our experiences to help African nations create mining plans that fit their needs. China backs Nigeria and other African countries in managing their mining development, ensuring that they keep decision-making power and reap the benefits of their resources.

Second, we must focus on shared benefits and mutual success. This principle is at the heart of China-Africa mining cooperation. In our partnerships, both sides should seek fairness and benefits for all. China does not aim for one-sided gains in its cooperation with Africa. We believe in win-win partnerships and collective growth. In Nigeria, Chinese companies in the energy and mining sectors not only bring money and technology. They also focus on local operations, skills training, and community support. The Chinese Embassy will continue to guide these companies to improve their operations, share green technologies, support public welfare, boost local jobs, and encourage cooperation in the mining sector.

Third, we must aim for high-quality growth. This is the way forward for China-Africa mining cooperation. Africa can turn its resource advantages into real growth by promoting local processing, extending industrial chains, and adding value. China has a track record of supporting Africa's development and will keep pushing for higher value in mining cooperation. We aim to align China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Nigeria’s “Renewed Hope” Agenda, advancing projects into deeper processing and high-value areas. This approach can turn resources into a pathway for modernization instead of a “resource curse.”

Fourth, we need to ensure a fair and open cooperation environment. This is crucial for mining partnerships with Africa. African resources should not be used as tools for geopolitical competition. Politicizing African resource issues or creating divisions can harm the African people. China advocates for open cooperation and fair competition. We welcome all who truly want to support African development. We are ready to work with African partners to maintain a stable and predictable market for mining cooperation. This will create better conditions for investments and operations. China stands with Nigeria in rejecting any use of mineral resources as bargaining chips in geopolitical struggles, ensuring that resource development benefits the people.

I want to stress that the Chinese government expects all Chinese businesses and citizens in Nigeria to follow Nigerian laws. We have a zero-tolerance policy for illegal mining and any criminal acts. China supports Nigeria in strengthening mining governance. Most Chinese mining companies in Nigeria follow the law, fulfill their social responsibilities, and protect the environment. Any exaggerated or false claims about specific cases are unfair and do not help China-Nigeria relations. We are committed to working with Nigeria to regulate the market, fight illegal mining, and create a healthy business environment.

China and Africa have a shared future with great possibilities. Platforms like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation provide solid support. The benefits of China’s zero-tariff policy for all diplomatic partners in Africa are also emerging, creating good conditions for deeper cooperation. I believe that if both sides focus on mutual respect and benefits, we can turn Africa’s resource wealth into real development. This will bring more benefits to both Chinese and African people and contribute to a stronger China-Africa community.

China is ready to work closely with Nigeria and other African countries to fully implement President Xi Jinping’s four-point plan for mining cooperation. Together, we can write a new chapter of high-quality development in China-Africa mining cooperation, ensuring that Africa’s resources truly benefit its people and that our partnership serves as a model for South-South cooperation and supports Africa’s modernization.