Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties between China and Mozambique

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
June 25, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Mozambique's independence, as well as the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic
relations between China and Mozambique.Over the past five decades, the two countries have built a lasting friendship, with cooperation in
agriculture, education, and infrastructure standing as a model for partnerships among developing nations.What are some of the outstanding
milestones that have shaped the evolution of this bilateral relationship over the past 50 years? And what lies ahead for the future of
China-Mozambique ties?Gil Anibal, a political analyst from Mozambique, shares his views with China Africa Talk. China Africa Talk: This
year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Mozambique
How would you assess the evolution of bilateral relations over the past five decades? Gil Anibal: The relationship between Mozambique and
China is very positive and at a higher standard
China is always with us
China contributed to Mozambique's independence 50 years ago
We have a long-term relationship in different areas like politics, economy and society
China is contributing to our infrastructure construction
China has built many projects in Mozambique, like we call Circular de Maputo, which is the name of the road that China has built
It involves the Maputo-Katembe Bridge which is the biggest twin-tower suspension bridge in Africa
So this is an example of an infrastructure contribution from China
But China is also present in different economic lines like hydrocarbon and energy.In agriculture, China is providing assistance like
technology and finance
The Chinese community in Mozambique plays a significant role in Mozambican development
We are happy for that. China Africa Talk: Agriculture remains the backbone of Mozambique's economy
China has helped establish an agricultural technology demonstration center in Mozambique
What tangible outcomes have the center produced? What role does it play in Mozambique's agricultural modernization and how has it impacted
local communities? Gil Anibal: Well, agriculture in Mozambique is set by the government as the pillar of the development, even in our
constitution
So China's support is contributing a lot to our agricultural development, and to our GDP
Our local farmers are also assisted by China
The China-Mozambique Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center is an outstanding cooperation between the two countries
Besides carrying out agricultural experiments, the center also trains local farmers, improving their livelihoods significantly. China
Africa Talk: Mozambique has enjoyed zero-tariff treatment from China since last December
China is planning to expand the zero-tariff treatment from 33 to 53 African countries
How do you envision these measures in promoting Mozambique's trade and enhancing its competitiveness? Gil Anibal: I think this is a very
good policy and it cements the relations moving forward
Our expectation is that Chinese can continue to build the industry here so that they can employ many Mozambicans and also process product
and export
The policy can add some value to our products
Personally, I hope China can set up a car manufacturing center in Mozambique, because so many cars we are using for public transport is
coming from China
Talking about energy transition, the government of Mozambique is trying to reduce fuel consumption and use natural gas, thermal energy, and
etc
China can play a role in this sector. China Africa Talk: What are the most promising areas for future cooperation?Gil Anibal: I think
people play a key role in deepening exchanges and cooperation between China and Mozambique.  As you know, we have many Chinese here in
Mozambique
Our government has proposed to introduce Chinese language in universities and other higher schools
I think this is a good point because before trading, what we have as an important relationship is the people-to-people exchanges and
understanding
So many Chinese are speaking Portuguese
And more Mozambicans are now speaking Chinese.We can also explore cooperation in tourism and in security as well.