Participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)
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The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was held in Beijing, China from 2nd-6th September 2024, marking a significant milestone in the deepening partnership between China and Africa. This year’s forum, themed “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future” highlighted the growing synergy between the two regions.
This Summit saw the participation of an official Mauritius delegation led by H.E. Mr. Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon, Vice President of Mauritius and comprising high level delegates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade and the Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Board, with the objective of strengthening bilateral ties with China, exploring new trade and investment opportunities, and enhancing cooperation on regional development initiatives.
His Excellency Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon, Vice President of the Republic of Mauritius and His Excellency Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China
FOCAC 2024 featured a series of impactful events such as the 9th Ministerial Conference and the UNESCO Dialogue on Cultural and Educational Cooperation, where Chinese and African officials strengthened trade, investment, and cultural ties. Throughout the forum, high-level discussions and panels addressed topics including economic development, trade, climate change, and technology, highlighting the mutual benefits of the China-Africa partnership and showcasing collaborative projects aimed at addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals.
Another key feature of FOCAC 2024 was the 8th Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs, which provided a platform for business leaders to discuss opportunities and challenges in their respective markets. The conference highlighted the role of the private sector in driving economic progress and encouraged collaboration between Chinese and African businesses. The conference attracted more than 1,000 participants, including over 400 representatives from business associations and institutions across 48 African countries.
The CEO of EDB delivered a keynote address on “Promoting the Development of Emerging Industries,” emphasizing how advancing these industries can strengthen China-Africa business and trade relations. He provided valuable insights into Africa’s growth prospects, explored opportunities for partnerships, and discussed leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He also highlighted the strategic role of Mauritius in expanding these collaborations.
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The CEO of EDB delivered a keynote address on “Promoting the Development of Emerging Industries,” emphasizing how advancing these industries can strengthen China-Africa business and trade relations. He provided valuable insights into Africa’s growth prospects, explored opportunities for partnerships, and discussed leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He also highlighted the strategic role of Mauritius in expanding these collaborations.
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Mr. Poonoosamy stated that “Africa's economic transformation is increasingly driven by the need to address production complexities and advance higher value-added industries. Emerging sectors across the continent are central to this shift. This transformation involves developing and investing in industries such as technology, renewable energy, biotechnology, agritech, and advanced manufacturing. By enhancing production complexity, these sectors can generate higher value-added products, leading to increased income, better-paid jobs, and a more significant economic contribution throughout the continent. Therefore, ample opportunities exist for investors to play a pivotal role in this transformation”.
Mr. Ken Poonoosamy, Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Board Mauritius delivering his keynote address at the 8th Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs on 6th September.
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Furthermore, the Mauritius delegation took part in several bilateral discussions with their counterparts. Additionally, during the FOCAC event, a series of business-to-business meetings were arranged for the Mauritius delegates.
FOCAC 2024 has set the stage for a new chapter in the China-Africa relationship, characterised by enhanced cooperation and mutual growth. For Mauritius, the forum has opened up new avenues for development and partnership, reinforcing its role in this dynamic global alliance. As the implications of FOCAC 2024 continue to unfold, Mauritius is well-positioned to leverage these opportunities for its continued advancement and prosperity.
Mr. Ken Poonoosamy, Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Board and Mr. Zhao Shaogang, Vice Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT)
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Ground Floor, 7 Exchange Square, Wall Street, Ebene, 72201, Republic of Mauritius
contact@edbmauritius.org | +230 203 3800
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