Africa seeks closer BRI cooperation in trade, financing
China and African nations are strengthening cooperation on infrastructure, trade, and financing through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Export-Import Bank of China plans to focus future investments on clean energy, digital infrastructure, and industrial development to support African economic growth.
Why it matters
This partnership represents a significant shift in geopolitical influence and economic development strategies across the African continent.
China and African countries are seeking closer cooperation in infrastructure, trade and financing to strengthen regional connectivity, expand local industries and support economic growth, representatives said at the Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum 2026 on Wednesday.
Speaking in Nairobi, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan stressed China's commitment to align Belt and Road cooperation with Africa's development priorities.
Guo pledged deeper financial cooperation that would help ease investment constraints and advance projects that benefit communities across the continent.
"We will closely align Belt and Road cooperation with the AU's Agenda 2063," she said, referring to the African Union's long-term development blueprint.
Guo said China would support African countries in pursuing modernization suited to their national circumstances, while expanding trade cooperation and helping local producers capture more value from their products.
The forum, held simultaneously in Beijing and Nairobi, was organized by the Export-Import Bank of China.
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