Chinese President Xi Jinping on February 5th warmly congratulated the African countries and people on the opening of the 35th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly.

In his congratulatory message to the AU Summit, Xi pointed out that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the AU's founding, and that over the past 20 years, the AU has stayed committed to seeking strength through unity, actively explored a development path suited to Africa, facilitated important progress in regional integration and coordinated a concerted response from African countries to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Such efforts have proven effective in maintaining peace, stability and development in Africa, and have won Africa growing influence and stature in the world, Xi said.