CONGO TOWN, Liberia, October 14, 2026 – Chinese President Xi Jinping has outlined four principles for resolving conflicts across Africa, emphasizing African leadership, respect for sovereignty, peaceful dialogue and long-term development.
According to a statement released Tuesday, October 13, by the Chinese Embassy in Liberia, Xi presented the principles during a meeting with Togolese President of the Council of Ministers Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, who is on an official visit to China.
The Chinese leader stressed that African countries must take the lead in resolving conflicts affecting the continent, arguing that lasting peace requires solutions developed and supported by Africans themselves.
Under his first principle, Xi called for an Africa-led approach, emphasizing that African people should remain central to decisions concerning the continent’s peace and security.
His second principle focused on fairness and justice, urging parties involved in conflict resolution to respect the United Nations Charter, national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The third principle emphasized ending hostilities through dialogue and consultation rather than military confrontation or unilateral sanctions.
Xi argued that wars and sanctions cannot fundamentally resolve conflicts, calling instead for mutual understanding, accommodation and peaceful negotiations.
His fourth principle centered on addressing both the immediate and underlying causes of instability, including development challenges that contribute to prolonged conflicts.
He stressed that sustainable peace requires measures that respond to urgent security threats while creating conditions for long-term economic and social development.
The remarks come amid continuing security challenges across Africa, including armed conflicts, terrorism, political instability and territorial disputes in the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Great Lakes region and parts of Central and West Africa.
China has expanded its engagement with African countries through infrastructure investment, trade, diplomatic cooperation and participation in peacekeeping operations.
Beijing has consistently advocated African-led approaches to conflict resolution, although its growing economic and strategic involvement has also generated debate over foreign influence and the long-term implications of international partnerships.
Xi’s latest remarks reinforce China’s stated position that peace efforts should prioritize African ownership, international law, negotiations and sustainable development.
However, translating these principles into lasting stability will depend on their practical application by governments, regional organizations and other parties involved in resolving conflicts across the continent.
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