Africa: Xi Outlines Four Principles for Peace in Africa

International Dialogue: Xi Sets Four Foundations for Continental Peace

-Calls for African‑led solutions, dialogue and sustainable development — guiding a collaborative approach to lasting peace

CONGO TOWN, Liberia, October 14, 2026 – Chinese President Xi Jinping has outlined four principles for resolving conflicts across Africa, emphasising African leadership, respect for sovereignty, peaceful dialogue and long‑term development.

According to a statement released Tuesday, October 13, by the Chinese Embassy in Liberia, Xi presented the principles during a meeting with Togolese President of the Council of Ministers Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, who is on an official visit to China.

Under his first principle, Xi championed an Africa‑led approach, stressing that African citizens must retain decisive roles in shaping the continent’s peace and security agenda.

His second principle focused on fairness and justice, urging parties involved in conflict resolution to respect the United Nations Charter, national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The third principle advocated concluding hostilities through open dialogue and consultation, rejecting militarised responses or unilateral sanctions.

Xi warned that wars and sanctions cannot fundamentally resolve conflicts, calling instead for mutual understanding, accommodation and peaceful negotiations.

His fourth principle centres on tackling both acute and root causes of instability, particularly development shortcomings that fuel protracted conflicts.

The remarks come amid ongoing security challenges across Africa, including armed conflict, terrorism, political instability and territorial disputes in the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Great Lakes region and parts of Central and West Africa.

China has deepened its partnerships with African states through substantial infrastructure investment, balanced trade, robust diplomatic cooperation and active participation in peacekeeping missions.

Beijing has consistently promoted African‑led pathways to conflict resolution, even as its expanding economic and strategic presence has sparked debate over foreign influence and the long‑term implications of international ties.

These statements reaffirm China’s commitment to placing African ownership, international law, negotiation and sustainable development at the core of peace efforts.

However, translating these principles into lasting stability will depend on their practical application by governments, regional organisations and other actors engaged in continent‑wide conflict resolution.

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