Today marks the start of Foreign Minister Wang Yi's first overseas trip of 2026 📅✈️. From January 7 to 12, Wang Yi will visit Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania and Lesotho at the invitation of their governments.
For 36 years in a row, Africa has kicked off China’s foreign ministerial visits, signaling the continent’s key role in China’s global outreach 🌍. Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee (China’s top leadership team), will head to the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa for the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges 🤝.
What does “People-to-People Exchanges” mean? In simple terms, it’s a big push for cultural, educational and tech collaboration between China and African nations. Think student exchanges, virtual hackathons, music and dance festivals, and startup bootcamps. It’s a chance to build real connections beyond politics – and it could inspire similar collaborations across Asia and beyond ✨.
Here’s why young pros and students in South Asia and Southeast Asia should care:
- Global networking: Connect with African peers through exchange programs, online workshops and cultural festivals 🎓🎉.
- Tech & innovation: Join cross-continental hackathons or startup challenges that bridge Asian and African talent 💡🌐.
- Cultural vibes: Experience new music, food and art scenes – from Ethiopian coffee ceremonies to Tanzanian dance beats ☕💃.
- Career opportunities: Internships or volunteer stints with NGOs and businesses focused on sustainable development and tech solutions 🌱🚀.
By boosting people-centric ties, this initiative aims to create a two-way street of ideas, skills and friendships. Whether you’re coding an app or curating a playlist, there’s room to get involved and make an impact 🌟.
Keep an eye out for announcements on specific programs and application deadlines later this year. Who knows? Your next big adventure could be just a plane ticket and an exchange form away!
Reference(s):
Wang Yi to visit four African countries in first overseas trip of 2026
cgtn.com
