China welcomes African countries on board the fast train of Chinese development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday, at a press conference on the sidelines of the national legislature's annual session, answering a question from CGTN journalist Jane Kiyo.

Wang cited a statement from Chinese President Xi Jinping, "China and Africa are friends tested by adversity. Such friends must never be forgotten." Wang said, as a brother and partner of Africa, China has always attached particular importance to the needs and interests of African countries. 

Wang pointed out that Africa faces the twin challenges of maintaining peace and security while promoting development and revitalization. In response, China will strengthen cooperation with African countries on fighting terrorism, piracy, and natural disasters.

The China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit will be held in Beijing in September, themed on China and Africa's joint Belt and Road Initiative, and turning China and Africa into a community with a shared future.