President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania departed for China yesterday and arrived today for her five-day working visit, from September 2 to 6, 2024. The State House shared photos of her arrival this morning. During this visit, she will participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing.
While in China, President Samia will engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, focusing on strengthening the historic relationship between Tanzania and China, which has thrived for over 60 years.
Alongside Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, the two leaders will witness the signing of agreements to upgrade the Tazara Railway.
Key areas expected to be highlighted during the FOCAC summit include infrastructure development, investment promotion, industrialization, modern agriculture, and peace and security.
Additionally, President Samia is scheduled to address the opening session of the FOCAC summit, representing the East African region.
According to a statement released on August 31, 2024, by Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, President Samia’s visit to China aims to secure funding for four key projects.
“Tanzania is set to present various projects, including new ones and those that could not be implemented under the previous FOCAC plan due to various reasons, to secure concessional loans and grants for their execution under the FOCAC 2025-2027 work plan,” stated Ambassador Kombo.
The four projects that President Samia will present at the summit include the second phase of rural communication network development, the second and third phases of the 400-kilovolt power transmission line construction, the second phase of vocational education and training centers (VETA) construction, and the construction of 277 kilometers of roads in Zanzibar.