Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Burundi
On February 11 2026, during the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), a significant audience took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, His Excellency Ambassador Edouard BIZIMANA, , and Mr LIU Xianfa, Special Representative of the Chinese Government for African Affairs. This meeting, marked by a spirit of cooperation and friendship, provided an opportunity to assess and strengthen the existing diplomatic relations between Burundi and the People’s Republic of China.
The discussions highlighted the importance of friendly relations between the two nations. Both authorities emphasised the progress made thanks to Sino-Burundian cooperation, particularly in the field of infrastructure. These achievements demonstrate China’s commitment to Burundi’s development and Burundi’s willingness to open its doors to foreign investment and technical expertise.
One of the highlights of the meeting was Burundi’s ambitious vision of becoming an emerging country by 2040 and a developed country by 2060. The Minister expressed the need for continued support to achieve these goals, which are in line with the African Union’s Agenda, focused on ‘Ensuring sustainable availability of water and safe sanitation systems’ in order to achieve the targets set for 2060.
The discussions also addressed crucial issues such as social cohesion and peace building in the region. Stability is essential to ensuring a climate conducive to economic and social development, and Burundi, as a key player, is determined to play its part in promoting peace in Africa.
Mr Liu Xianfa expressed his country’s commitment to continue to closely collaborate with Burundi, affirming that China will remain a reliable partner during this decisive period of the AU presidency. This reassuring promise is a strong sign of the lasting alliance between the two nations.
In short, this meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation and the Special Representative Liu Xianfa marks an important step in strengthening ties between Burundi and China. As the two countries strive to consolidate their cooperation, the future looks promising for Burundi, which aspires to shared prosperity in collaboration with its international partners. The desire to build a united and supportive Africa requires such strategic alliances, and Burundi is firmly committed to this path.