Leaders of Sao Tome reaffirm one-China principle

Leaders from Africa’s Sao Tome and Principe reaffirmed the one-China principle in their meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, adding that the country will firmly support the policy and expect closer ties and enhanced cooperation.

Sao Tome and Principe President Evaristo Carvalho said Tuesday that he firmly believes the reestablishment of diplomatic ties with China is the most correct decision and that the country firmly supports the one-China principle, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

China and Sao Tome and Principe resumed diplomatic relations in December 2016, after the west African nation cut “diplomatic ties” with Taiwan.

Since then, exchanges between the two countries have resumed and have brought tangible benefits to Sao Tome and Principe, Wang said.

Wang said China is speeding up its comprehensive cooperation with Africa under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the Belt and Road initiative, and supports Africa’s pursuit of independent development.

However, some African countries’ “diplomatic ties” with Taiwan have prevented them from having normal relations with China and from joining Sino-African cooperation, he said.

Wang said he hopes no African country will miss the historic opportunities brought by a fast-developing China.

At a press conference in Sao Tome and Principe, Wang said he hopes Sino-African cooperation will not omit any African country.

Wang was in Sao Tome and Principe Tuesday for the last leg of his new year African trip.