China to train 7,000 African military and law enforcement personnel

China has announced a significant initiative to train 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 law enforcement officers from African countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled the program during the Ninth Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which opened recently, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

President Xi stated, “China will provide training for 6,000 servicemen and 1,000 law enforcement officers from Africa. We will also invite 500 young officers from the region to visit our country.”

This initiative aligns with China’s broader global security strategy and is supported by a substantial investment of 1 billion yuan (about $140 million).

The program will include joint drills, training exercises, and participation in the "Mine-Free Africa" event.

The FOCAC, established in 2000, is a key platform for enhancing China's economic, political, and cultural influence in Africa. It alternates between Beijing and an African capital, aiming to advance China's Belt and Road initiative. The previous forums were held in Beijing in September 2018 and Dakar in November 2021.