China-Guinea-Bissau 50th anniversary: Deepening cooperation, opening a new era

Editor's note: Decision Makers is a global platform for decision makers to share their insights on events shaping today's world. António Serifo Embaló is the ambassador of Guinea-Bissau to China. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties on March 15, 1974, Guinea-Bissau and China have steadily enhanced their friendly cooperation across various sectors. This year marks the momentous 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations. On behalf of President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló and all the staff ofthe Embassy of Guinea-Bissau in China, I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the People's Republic of China and its people for deepening friendship with Africa, particularly with Guinea-Bissau, and for their commitment to the continent's development.

A significant milestone was reached on November 22, 2021, with the official signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between China and Guinea-Bissau for joint construction in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This signals an expanded scope of cooperation and commercial opportunities. Priority areas for future collaboration and development include infrastructure, transportation, electricity, mining, agriculture, and healthcare. These initiatives foster investment in Guinea-Bissau's economy, culture, and tourism.

Chinese support for the Bissau-Safin section of the West African coastal road exemplifies the commitment to implementing the Belt and Road Initiative and reinforces the profound friendship between China and Guinea-Bissau. This project lays a solid foundation for the economic and social development of Guinea-Bissau, elevating the relationship between the two nations.

Guinea-Bissau's economy relies heavily on agriculture. Chinese agricultural experts stationed in Guinea-Bissau have provided technical training to tens of thousands of locals, assisting in cultivating improved rice varieties to boost harvests and advance local agriculture.

To further enhance industrial cooperation opportunities, Guinea-Bissau has established a significant partnership with Chinese companies. This partnership aims to connect industrial resources, science and technology, and related products, significantly improving the efficiency and convenience of economic and trade exchanges between the two countries.

Africa and China are persevering in strengthening their solid friendship, mutual respect, and cooperative relationship that have united them for over 60 years. Various forums on investment, innovation, development, trade, and services between China and Africa aim to bolster interaction and cooperation in finance, transportation, education, environment, tourism, and other sectors. These endeavors aim to elevate the overall level of trade and service industries between the two sides.

The focus extends to ongoing projects such as biomass expansion (wind and photovoltaic), transportation infrastructure (roads, bridges, railway, and air connections), fisheries resources, tourism development, and advanced digital technologies.

The highest authorities of Guinea-Bissau would like to express their gratitude to China for the tangible results achieved in consolidating peace, security, and poverty eradication through this cooperation, appreciating China's timely commitment fulfillment. With joint efforts from both sides, cooperation in various fields between the countries will reach new heights of development.

Long live the cooperation between China and Guinea-Bissau!

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