Mozambique today joined China’s “community of shared future for a new era,” which aims to build a new structure for international relations and “improve” global governance, during the visit of Mozambican President Daniel Chapo to Beijing.
In a joint statement released at the end of the state visit, which began on April 16, the two countries stated that the decision reflects the deepening of political, economic, and strategic cooperation since the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016.
Beijing and Maputo consider that the friendship between the two countries has “withstood international changes” since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975 and has become “an example of Sino-African friendship and South-South cooperation.”
China reiterated its support for the development strategy presented by Chapo for 2025-2044 and for the Mozambican plan for 2025-2029, focused on poverty reduction, inclusive growth, and structural development, committing to continue supporting Mozambique’s industrialization.
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Both sides agreed to strengthen the articulation between national development strategies and to deepen cooperation within the framework of the “Belt and Road” initiative.
Launched in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, just months after coming to power, the initiative is the cornerstone of Chinese foreign policy and aims to deepen Beijing’s economic influence among developing countries through the construction of roads, railways, power plants, or ports.
Currently, 150 countries are partners in the initiative, which has made China the world’s largest bilateral creditor.
The parties announced their intention to sign a framework agreement for an economic partnership for common development, intended to guarantee “long-term, stable, and predictable” foundations for bilateral trade and investment.
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Beijing encouraged more Chinese companies to invest in Mozambique to support the modernization of industrial chains and promote autonomous and sustainable development.
Among the priority sectors for cooperation, the statement highlights energy, minerals, agriculture, infrastructure, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and mobile technologies.
In the energy and mining sector, the two countries advocated for deepening existing partnerships, also pointing to new areas of growth such as resource exploration, human resources training, and geological cooperation, including a prospecting project in northern Mozambique.
In agriculture, both sides committed to strengthening cooperation along the entire value chain, from production to logistics, including mechanization, irrigation, and technical training.
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China also highlighted the application of zero tariffs to African countries with diplomatic relations with Beijing and expressed the expectation that Mozambique will take advantage of this policy to increase exports, including a “green lane” for agricultural products.
Politically, Maputo reiterated “unconditional support” for the “one China” principle, recognizing Taiwan as an inseparable part of Chinese territory, according to the statement.
In the field of security, the two countries defended respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, multilateralism, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, and Beijing expressed support for Mozambique’s efforts in combating terrorism, committing to strengthen cooperation between armed forces and security agencies, including training, technology, and joint exercises.
The text also provides for cooperation in emergency management and disaster prevention, covering monitoring, early warning, and response capabilities.
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China promised to continue granting scholarships and supporting the Mozambican health system, including sending medical teams and developing hospital projects.
Daniel Chapo classified the trip as a success and invited Xi to visit Mozambique.
