Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and Mozambique

June 25, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Mozambique's independence, as well as the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Mozambique.

Over the past five decades, the two countries have built a lasting friendship, with cooperation in agriculture, education, and infrastructure standing as a model for partnerships among developing nations.

What are some of the outstanding milestones that have shaped the evolution of this bilateral relationship over the past 50 years? And what lies ahead for the future of China-Mozambique ties?

Gil Anibal, a political analyst from Mozambique, shares his views with China Africa Talk.

China Africa Talk: This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Mozambique. How would you assess the evolution of bilateral relations over the past five decades?

Gil Anibal: The relationship between Mozambique and China is very positive and at a higher standard. China is always with us. China contributed to Mozambique's independence 50 years ago. We have a long-term relationship in different areas like politics, economy and society. China is contributing to our infrastructure construction. China has built many projects in Mozambique, like we call Circular de Maputo, which is the name of the road that China has built. It involves the Maputo-Katembe Bridge which is the biggest twin-tower suspension bridge in Africa. So this is an example of an infrastructure contribution from China. But China is also present in different economic lines like hydrocarbon and energy.In agriculture, China is providing assistance like technology and finance. The Chinese community in Mozambique plays a significant role in Mozambican development. We are happy for that.

China Africa Talk: Agriculture remains the backbone of Mozambique's economy. China has helped establish an agricultural technology demonstration center in Mozambique. What tangible outcomes have the center produced? What role does it play in Mozambique's agricultural modernization and how has it impacted local communities?

Gil Anibal: Well, agriculture in Mozambique is set by the government as the pillar of the development, even in our constitution. So China's support is contributing a lot to our agricultural development, and to our GDP. Our local farmers are also assisted by China. The China-Mozambique Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center is an outstanding cooperation between the two countries. Besides carrying out agricultural experiments, the center also trains local farmers, improving their livelihoods significantly.

China Africa Talk: Mozambique has enjoyed zero-tariff treatment from China since last December. China is planning to expand the zero-tariff treatment from 33 to 53 African countries. How do you envision these measures in promoting Mozambique's trade and enhancing its competitiveness?

Gil Anibal:I think this is a very good policy and it cements the relations moving forward. Our expectation is that Chinese can continue to build the industry here so that they can employ many Mozambicans and also process product and export. The policy can add some value to our products. Personally, I hope China can set up a car manufacturing center in Mozambique, because so many cars we are using for public transport is coming from China. Talking about energy transition, the government of Mozambique is trying to reduce fuel consumption and use natural gas, thermal energy, and etc. China can play a role in this sector.

China Africa Talk: What are the most promising areas for future cooperation?

Gil Anibal:I think people play a key role in deepening exchanges and cooperation between China and Mozambique. As you know, we have many Chinese here in Mozambique. Our government has proposed to introduce Chinese language in universities and other higher schools. I think this is a good point because before trading, what we have as an important relationship is the people-to-people exchanges and understanding. So many Chinese are speaking Portuguese. And more Mozambicans are now speaking Chinese.

We can also explore cooperation in tourism and in security as well.