China and African countries are set to jointly host nearly 600 cultural and people-to-people exchange activities in 2026 as part of efforts to deepen ties and strengthen mutual understanding between both sides.
The plan was confirmed by China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, who said the wide range of events would focus on promoting cultural interaction, shared learning and closer connections among citizens. She explained that the initiative is aimed at building stronger bonds between the two civilizations beyond diplomacy and trade.
Mao spoke while providing details on the opening ceremony of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, which recently took place at the African Union headquarters. She noted that the programme stems from an agreement reached by leaders from China and Africa during the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit in 2024.
According to her, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to mark the launch of the year-long programme, calling on both sides to use the opportunity to strengthen their long-standing friendship. He encouraged deeper cultural exchanges, greater youth engagement, enhanced sharing of governance experience and joint efforts toward modernisation.
China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, was also present at the ceremony, where he praised the progress made so far in China–Africa cultural cooperation. He joined African representatives in unveiling the official logo for the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, signaling the start of what both sides hope will be a vibrant period of cultural engagement.
