CGTN correspondent Han Bin interviewed Ambassador Smail Chergui, African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, during the first China-Africa Peace and Security Forum in Beijing.
Q: China has been actively supporting the African Union's role in reducing various conflicts on the continent. How does the AU view China's role in stabilizing the situation?
A: China is well respected on the continent as a partner, and we have witnessed the immense presence of all the leaders during the summit. I think it's a testimony of foremost confidence. I think that's why it's only natural to work with China for the stability and development of the continent. And we are in the phase of implementing them, it's not only talks; it's actions.
Q: Africa is now on the path of transformation. What are the major security challenges facing its development?
A: The first and most challenging threat we face today is terrorism, violence and extremism. But we think the response should not be only security and military. It has to address the root causes of this situation, which is mainly poverty. Without peace and security, there would be no development, we cannot go anywhere.
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Q: China promotes a new security model of community of shared destiny, which addresses the root causes of development and inequality. How does this model work for Africa?
A: I think it's a realistic and workable approach, in terms of promoting a win-win approach. One insurance for more stability is multilateralism; therefore, we should work together to promote and protect multilateralism.
Q: China's military has promised to take on more international responsibilities, like escorting peace missions in Africa. But there's also the "China threat" criticisms.
A: We have seen the deployment of peacekeeping soldiers from China in South Sudan, in Western Sahara, in central Africa, and in many other places. This contribution is really most welcome. We want to see more of the Chinese presence in peace support missions.
Q: There have been negative perceptions of China's influence in Africa, like the so-called debt-trap of Chinese investment. What's your opinion of such criticism?
A: I would respond to your question with another question: Why is the focus only on Chinese investment in Africa, why not to the Chinese investment in Europe, which is maybe 50 times more than what is invested in Africa. I think Africa is in the position to appreciate what is good for its development and for security. And thereafter, act in accordance in deciding which investment they should promote. And I think no one has any lessons to give to African member states in terms of how they want to promote their own development.