United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday told African leaders during the China-Africa Forum that the “injustices” against the continent must be addressed. He advocated for a permanent seat for Africa on the UN Security Council, urging African leaders to push for greater representation at the global level.
China-Africa Forum: A Platform for Change
Guterres and over 50 African leaders were attending the China-Africa forum, a key event for discussing the future of Africa’s economic and geopolitical landscape. According to state media, this forum provides an important platform for discussions on Africa’s development challenges and partnerships.
Addressing Historic Injustices
Speaking at the forum, Guterres declared that it was time to correct what he referred to as “historic injustices” faced by Africa. He highlighted the glaring absence of a permanent seat for Africa on the UN Security Council, describing the situation as “outrageous.”
Africa’s Struggles with Debt and Development
Guterres also pointed out the economic challenges many African countries face, particularly the crippling debt that hinders their ability to invest in sustainable development. He noted that many nations have limited access to debt relief, suffer from scarce resources, and receive insufficient funding to tackle their key development issues.
China’s Role in Africa’s Development
The Secretary-General praised China’s development trajectory, especially its success in eradicating poverty, describing it as a valuable source of experience and expertise. He suggested that China could serve as a catalyst for transitions in Africa’s food systems, digital connectivity, and infrastructure development.
The Potential for Greater China-Africa Collaboration
Guterres concluded by noting the potential for Africa, home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, to benefit from China’s support. He highlighted areas such as trade, data management, finance, and technology where China could make a significant impact on Africa’s continued growth.
