China Pledges $140m Military Aid To Africa, Opposes Foreign Interference

China has pledged to provide Africa with a military aid package worth $140 million, which includes a 1 billion yuan grant for military assistance, training for 6,000 military personnel, and 1,000 police and law enforcement officers across the continent. The move underscores China’s commitment to supporting African security efforts while opposing foreign interference in the continent’s internal affairs.

The announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a briefing in Abuja, Nigeria, following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Thursday. Wang Yi emphasized China’s dedication to fostering a strong and independent Africa, free from external pressure.

“China will firmly support Africans in addressing African issues in the African way,” Wang Yi said. “African people are the real masters of this continent. They have every wisdom, capability, and right to resolve their issues.”

Wang Yi reiterated China’s support for the African Union (AU) and other sub-regional organizations, which he sees as vital platforms for constructive dialogue and conflict resolution. He highlighted that Africa must resolve its own challenges without outside interference, stressing that Beijing’s vision for the continent is rooted in empowering African institutions to manage their disputes and security concerns independently.

This support is part of China’s broader Global Security Initiative (GSI), aimed at promoting sustainable peace and stability in Africa through locally-driven solutions. As a major contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, China has committed to continuing to amplify Africa’s voice in global forums, including the United Nations Security Council.

“We will work to advance the partnership action for common security, making the Global Security Initiative in Africa a fine example of global cooperation,” Wang Yi said.

In addition to security assistance, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to economic cooperation, noting the $49 billion funding pledged at a recent China-Africa summit to promote Africa’s development and long-term prosperity. He emphasized that fostering economic security through development is integral to achieving stability on the continent.

Wang Yi also praised Nigeria’s leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), expressing confidence in Nigeria’s role in uniting regional countries, promoting reconciliation, and strengthening security cooperation.

“China supports Nigeria in rallying countries in the region to achieve strength through unity, build synergy through reconciliation, and promote security through cooperation to achieve peace and stability,” Wang Yi concluded.

This pledge reflects China’s growing role as a key partner in Africa’s security and development, reinforcing its commitment to a shared future with the continent.