Guinean President Alpha Condé: “China Is Africa’s Opportunity”

　　On September 16, 2011, Alpha Condé, then President of the Republic of Guinea, climbed the majestic Badaling Great Wall. This journey was not only an exploration of China’s ancient culture but also a vivid portrayal of the enduring friendship between China and Africa.

　　Guinea was the first sub-Saharan African country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, marking the beginning of a deep and long-standing bond. In 2010, Condé was elected President of Guinea, and the following year, he visited the country he had long admired – China.

　　Stretching over two millennia and spanning tens of thousands of miles, the Great Wall winds through deserts and mountains, and stands as the most massive human creation in the history of global civilization. Kondé’s footsteps on the ancient bricks were like flipping through a living chapter of Chinese history. He left the inscription: “It is hard to imagine that in the absence of modern construction technology, humanity could complete the construction of this great scale two thousand years ago. This shows the creativity and wisdom of the great Chinese people. Salute to the great builders!”

　　As Condé stood atop the Great Wall, his thoughts likely turned to the profound bond between the two nations. The cooperation between China and Guinea, much like the construction of the Great Wall, was built step by step, brick by brick.

　　In an interview with Chinese journalists, Condé said, “I want to express my gratitude to the Chinese government and people. China has made tangible contributions to Guinea’s development. For a period of time, China has stood with us in our fight against Ebola. I hope that Guinea and China can develop comprehensive cooperation covering sectors such as minerals, energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.”

　　As Kondé said, “China is an opportunity for Africa, and Africa is also an opportunity for China.” China and Guinea will jointly move towards the goal of building a community of shared future for mankind.