CLASS ACT: Chinese volunteers teach in Addis Ababa University (XIONG SIHAO)

Inter-Party Exchanges

The inter-party exchange between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and African political parties is an important part of Sino-African relations. The CPC has expanded its external exchanges and contacts, establishing ties with not only national ruling parties, but also participating and opposition parties. The area of exchange has been extended from politics to business, trade and culture. The enlarged exchange has played a key role in promoting the strategic partnership between China and Africa.

Recently, Ai Ping, Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, shared his views on China-Africa party-to-party exchange with ChinAfrica Executive Editor Wang Bingyi and reporter Liu Wei. Edited excerpts follow:

CHINAFRICA: Could you share with us the current situation of the party-to-party exchanges between China and African countries? What role does it play? What has it accomplished?

Ai Ping: The party-to-party exchange serves as the political foundation for Sino-African relations. On the basis of the principles of independence, equality, mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, the CPC has established relationships with 71 parties from 42 Sub-Saharan countries, and keeps frequent exchange visits with 56 of them.

African political parties also attach great importance to inter-party communication. During Vice President Xi's visit to Africa, South African Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe said that inter-party communication constitutes one of the key components of South Africa-China collaboration and serves as the basis for inter-governmental cooperation. He also noted that sometimes problems that cannot be solved by governmental consultation could be easily settled through inter-party exchanges.

What is your take on the significance of Vice President Xi's recent visit to Africa?

This visit took place in the post-crisis era, when China-Africa cooperation faces unprecedented opportunities. Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of FOCAC, the visit has reflected the strong determination of Chinese leaders to strengthen cooperation with African countries. In addition, the pragmatic cooperation agreements signed during the visit focus on key areas such as infrastructure construction, agriculture and capacity building of human resources. It will contribute to helping Africa with its effort in reducing poverty, tackling unemployment and building up self-development capacity.

Will the Party put forward some requirements regarding corporate social responsibility?

Large Chinese companies have been actively performing their social responsibilities in Africa. They have been increasing investment in infrastructure construction and raise funds to build livelihood projects such as schools and hospitals for African countries. However, as there are so many companies there, it is unavoidable that some didn't do well enough.

The CPC won't intervene in the business activities of those Chinese companies, but it has paid much attention to their corporate social responsibilities and has reminded them of the issue in various ways. During his visit to Angola, Vice President Xi held an informal discussion with Chinese enterprises there, asking them to abide by the local laws, fulfill their social responsibilities and participate in more of local public welfare activities.

Could you share with us your experience in working with China-Africa exchanges?

I think the reason for the flourishing of China-Africa relationship is that China has been adhering to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. As famous ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius said, "Do not do unto others what you would not have others do unto you." As China doesn't want other countries to interfere with its internal affairs, it will never do so to other countries.

Besides, China believes that a nation should determine its own development path and economic system. In cooperation with African parties, China never promotes its development mode. Instead, it cares about African countries' practical needs.

What kind of new events will there be in Sino-African party exchanges in 2011? 

In May, a China-Africa youth leaders forum will be held in Windhoek, capital of Namibia. Co-hosted by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, Foreign Ministry and the Chinese Communist Youth League as well as SWAPO Party of Namibia, the forum will focus on China-Africa youth cooperation. Besides, the International Department is going to hold a forum on China-South Africa tourism, economy and trade. We will continue to carry out the follow-up actions of China-Africa Agriculture Cooperation Forum, to help improve the food security of African countries. The CPC hopes to work with the South African Communist Party in promoting all-round strategic partnership between China and South Africa.