CPC Senior Leader Visits Africa to Strengthen China-Africa Relations
The People’s Republic of China has continued to deepen its diplomatic ties with Africa, and the recent arrival of His Excellency Li Xi, a high-ranking official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), marks another important step in this ongoing relationship. Li Xi, who is a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the CPC, has embarked on a diplomatic mission across three countries: Kenya, Italy, and South Africa.
His first stop is Kenya from 3 November 2024, where he will engage in bilateral talks with President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, further strengthening the partnership between the two nations.
The Structure and Role of the CPC
To understand the significance of Li Xi’s visit, it is helpful to understand the role and structure of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which leads China’s political, economic, and social direction. The CPC is the ruling political party in China, overseeing all key areas of governance, from economic policies to international relations.
The CPC operates through several main governing bodies. The highest level is the Central Committee, which elects the Political Bureau (Politburo). The Politburo Standing Committee, consisting of the most influential members of the CPC, makes major national decisions. Within this structure, Li Xi holds significant power and influence, as he is tasked with overseeing discipline within the party, a role that helps maintain stability and control over party operations.
China-Africa Economic Ties and Bilateral Goals
China’s relationship with Africa has evolved over decades, focused on mutual economic benefits. Through initiatives like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the CPC has emphasized partnership in trade, infrastructure, and development projects. Just weeks before Li Xi’s visit, the 2024 FOCAC Summit brought together leaders from China and African countries to discuss ways to deepen these partnerships, address challenges, and explore new opportunities. The outcome was a series of agreements promising continued investments in African infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
The economic relationship between China and Africa is built on China’s provision of infrastructure investment in exchange for access to Africa’s resources and markets. China funds roads, railways, and power plants across the continent, which help African nations expand their economies and improve quality of life for citizens. At the same time, China imports African goods like minerals, oil, and agricultural products, feeding its own industrial sector.
Alongside economic ties, China is also building political relationships with African governments. In Kenya, Li Xi’s discussions will include strengthening ties between the CPC and Kenya’s ruling coalition, Kenya Kwanza.
This collaboration is aimed at fostering economic growth and sharing best practices in governance, development planning, and citizen-focused policies.
The CPC’s involvement in these discussions demonstrates China’s interest in a stable and cooperative political environment in Africa. By building a positive relationship with local governments, China ensures smoother operations for its projects and strengthens diplomatic alliances that benefit both parties.
After concluding his visit to Kenya, Li Xi is set to travel to South Africa. His visit there aligns with South Africa’s role as one of China’s most significant trading partners in Africa. South Africa is part of the BRICS economic coalition, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—a coalition that China views as essential for global economic balance and reform. He is also expected to meet the senior leadership of the African National Congress (ANC)
Li Xi’s mission will then extend beyond Africa to Italy, where he will work on strengthening China’s diplomatic ties with Europe. These connections form part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to improve global trade routes and solidify China’s influence on a worldwide scale.
Li Xi’s visit to Africa reflects the CPC’s commitment to fostering a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship with African nations. By engaging in diplomatic and economic dialogues, China seeks to promote stability, development, and shared prosperity. His meetings with leaders, like Kenya’s President Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza ruling coalition, reinforce the message that China sees Africa as a key partner.
As Africa and China continue to collaborate, the impact of these relations will shape not only economic futures but also political landscapes, allowing African nations to benefit from investments while aligning with a global superpower that seeks to expand its influence across continents.
