Consolidating China-Togo relations
Faure Gnassingbé, President of Togo’s Council of Ministers, has met with Xi Jinping in Beijing to strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two countries. Gnassingbé’s visit from the 9th to 16th of October serves as a solidification of the strategic partnership the two countries established in 2024, resting largely on the comprehensive Chinese investment in Togo’s infrastructure. On October 13th, both countries confirmed that they share similar positions regarding international, regional and economic affairs, with China welcoming Togo’s use of its Zero-tariff policy and the “Green Channel” concerning exports to China.
China is Togo’s main source of foreign goods, routinely accounting for roughly 25%-30% of the nation’s total quarterly imports. Their cooperation continues to be extensive, spanning from bilateral economic and technological cooperation to culture, education and local development. As of 2024, Togo also participates in China’s Belt and Road Initiative as part of the greater cooperation between China and Africa.
China’s influence across the African continent
In the context of Chinese investment in Africa, Togo is one of many countries involved in trade relations. Between 2000 and 2023, China has supplied $182 billion in infrastructure loans to 49 African countries, with only 5 countries on the continent remaining without debt exposure. Above all, Beijing has influenced Port and Maritime enterprises, the Transportation and Mining sector, as well as being the top external energy financier in Africa.
Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has stated that the relationship with Togo serves as an example of the collaboration China strives for across the African continent. As such, the meeting between Xi Jinping and Faure Gnassingbé aims to set “a stellar example of equal treatment between big and small countries” and serve as a symbol for “solidarity and cooperation in the Global South.”
