The Diplomat published on 14 July 2025 an article titled "Africa and China: Turning FOCAC's Strategic Upgrades into Real Outcomes" by Huiyi Chen, Development Reimagined.
Every African country except Eswatini, which recognizes Taiwan, now has at least a "strategic partnership" with China and many have a more elevated status such as "comprehensive strategic partnership," "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership," and a special status for Ethiopia and South Africa.
The author argues that African countries must now sharpen their strategies to maximize the new framework with China. The year 2025 will test whether these upgraded ties can deliver real outcomes.
