For China, there are only 54 African States: Beijing reaffirms its position and denies the existence of the “Sahrawi Republic”

The spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lin Jian, recently made a significant statement on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter), reaffirming Beijing’s clear and unwavering position regarding the non-existence of the so-called the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.

During the 2024 China-Africa FOCAC Summit, Mr. Lin Jian highlighted that only 53 out of the 54 African states had participated in the event (Eswatini did not attend). Through this statement, China unequivocally asserts that it recognizes only 54 countries on the African continent.

China’s Position: A Clear Rejection of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic

This stance by China is not new but reinforces Beijing’s firm refusal to recognize the Sahrawi Republic. For the Chinese government, the sovereignty of nations is a paramount issue that leaves no room for separatist entities. Beijing has consistently maintained a clear diplomatic line on this matter, firmly supporting Morocco’s position regarding its Sahara, directly opposing the African Union’s recognition of the Sahrawi Republic

By reiterating that only 54 African countries exist in its diplomatic relations, China sends a strong message not only to Africa but also to the international community. This act signifies explicit solidarity with Morocco, a key partner of Beijing, and supports its territorial integrity, rejecting any form of recognition for entities China deems illegitimate.

The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation: A Major Event for Africa

The China-Africa FOCAC Summit, which saw the participation of 53 African countries, once again underscores the importance of Sino-African relations. This forum, held regularly to strengthen economic and political ties between China and Africa, serves as an essential platform to discuss development, trade, infrastructure, and international cooperation.

China, one of Africa’s largest investors and trade partners, uses these summits to solidify its influence on the continent while respecting national sovereignties.

The Contrast with the African Union’s Position

By including the Sahrawi Republic as its 55th member, the African Union (AU) places itself at odds with several influential countries, including China. This support for an entity recognized by only a limited number of nations divides the continent and weakens overall cooperation efforts. The AU’s position, which recognizes the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic as a member, conflicts with the recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over its Sahara.

By reaffirming that it recognizes only 54 African states, China highlights this division within the African Union. Through this clear stance, Beijing indirectly critiques the AU and warns against any attempts to legitimize separatist entities. For China, the future of Sino-African relations must be built on the stability of sovereign states and respect for their territorial integrity.

Explicit Support for Morocco

This statement comes at a time when Sino-Moroccan relations are flourishing, with growing cooperation in several sectors, particularly infrastructure, energy, and industry. China’s support for Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue is undeniable, and this declaration only strengthens this strategic alliance.

Morocco, which sees China as a major partner in its economic development, finds in Beijing a strong diplomatic ally in its quest for international recognition of its sovereignty over the Sahara. Through this stance, China positions itself not only as a key player in Africa but also as a faithful partner to the Kingdom on this crucial issue.

By excluding the Sahrawi Republic from its diplomatic relations and recognizing only 54 African states, China sends a strong signal to the international community and the African Union. Beijing reaffirms its position on the sovereignty of states while strengthening its strategic alliances, particularly with Morocco. This move also marks an important step in Sino-African relations, where stability, respect for territorial integrity, and mutual development remain Beijing’s top priorities.

Abderrazzak Boussaid/Le7tv