In the intricate arena of international relations, two key statements made just one day apart have starkly revealed a fundamental divide between two opposing worldviews.
On June 9, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio firmly declared that foreign aid must always serve U.S. national interests. The very next day, June 10, 2025, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking at the United Nations’ International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, passionately advocated for equity and dialogue as the essential building blocks of global development.
This juxtaposition of statements isn’t a passing moment in diplomatic discussions. Instead, it represents a significant ideological clash with far-reaching consequences for the world’s future, particularly for the nations of the Global South.
From an African perspective, it’s a critical turning point that compels the continent to make a fundamental decision regarding its future partnerships and its role in the global order.
One global power, the United States, approaches international relations through the narrow prism of self - interest. It views every interaction as a chance to advance its own agenda.
In contrast, China promotes a vision of coexistence that respects the sovereignty of each nation. China understands that true progress can only be achieved when all parties are treated as equals.
Different methods, different messages
Rubio’s words once again confirmed what many in Africa have long suspected about Western engagement with the continent. For decades, African countries endured a form of assistance characterized by conditions and a paternalistic attitude.
A 2024 report from the African Development Bank reveals that only 35% of Western aid to Africa between 2015 and 2023 was truly unconditional. The rest came with numerous requirements that often undermined national development strategies and pressured recipient countries to conform to Western political and economic interests. This approach has failed to bring about sustainable development and has left many African nations feeling marginalized on the global stage.
What’s more, a recent study by the Center for Global Development shows that in 2023 alone, the U.S. withheld over $500 million in aid from African countries simply because they did not align with U.S. positions on certain geopolitical issues. Such behavior erodes trust between the U.S. and African nations and obstructs the continent’s progress.
In sharp contrast, Wang Yi’s message of mutual benefit has resonated strongly across Africa. His call for “safeguarding equity” aligns perfectly with African nations’ long-standing demand for equal status in the international community.
African leaders and citizens are weary of being treated as charity cases or as tools in geopolitical maneuvers. They seek partnerships based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a genuine dedication to development.
The Zimbabwe example: A tale of two partners
Nowhere is this contrast more apparent than in Zimbabwe. For over 20 years, the West has punished Zimbabwe for pursuing self-determination. Sanctions imposed by the West have severely damaged the Zimbabwean economy, making it challenging for the country to meet its people’s basic needs.
Yet, during this difficult period, China has emerged as a reliable partner. China invested billions of dollars in Zimbabwe’s infrastructure, constructing roads, bridges, and power plants without imposing any political conditions.
Take the Chinese-funded Hwange Thermal Power Station expansion project as an example. This project added 600 megawatts of electricity to Zimbabwe’s grid, greatly improving the country’s power supply situation. It not only boosted economic growth but also enhanced the daily lives of ordinary Zimbabweans.
Africa’s transformation and aspirations
Africa is currently undergoing a profound transformation. Driven by a young and vibrant population, with more than 60% of Africans under the age of 25, and a growing spirit of innovation, the continent no longer wants to be a passive recipient of aid. It demands partnerships that strengthen, rather than weaken, its sovereignty.
Wang Yi’s vision, which includes leveraging cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence to preserve and promote civilizations, closely matches African aspirations. African countries are eager to embrace new technologies to drive development, and China’s willingness to share its expertise in areas such as AI and digital infrastructure presents a real opportunity for the continent to rapidly enter the digital age.
As the world continues to shift towards a multipolar order, Africa finds itself at a critical juncture. China’s model, which is based on dialogue and equity, offers exactly what Africa needs: genuine respect instead of empty promises, and support for sovereignty rather than attempts at subjugation.
Africa’s future depends on its ability to choose a partner that truly values its sovereignty and is committed to a shared vision of development.
(The writer is a Harare-based Zimbabwean political commentator.)
原文地址：http://en.people.cn/n3/2025/0620/c98649-20330741.html