African Union Reaffirms Strong Support for ‘One China’ Policy as China’s Top Diplomat Begins Strategic East Africa Tour

The African Union (AU) has reaffirmed its support for the “One China” policy. It rejected any claims of Taiwanese independence. This came during a visit by China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, to its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday, January 8. Wang’s visit marks the start of a tour of several East African countries. It highlights China’s growing influence in the region.

In a joint statement at AU headquarters, the bloc said there is only one China in the world. It called Taiwan an inalienable part of China’s territory. The statement comes amid tensions after Israel recognised Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. The AU has strongly criticised Israel’s move. The issue also resonates with China’s opposition to Taiwanese independence.

Wang, China’s foreign minister and a Political Bureau member, is set to visit Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho next. He met AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf in Ethiopia. They discussed global developments and stressed that sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. They also referenced the situation in Venezuela.

The visit is part of China’s broader diplomatic push in Africa. It coincides with the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. The program celebrates 70 years of diplomatic ties. It aims to boost cooperation, trust, and cultural and economic links between China and African nations.

The AU’s statement comes amid sensitivities over recognition of contested territories. Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has drawn criticism across Africa. China continues to oppose Taiwanese independence, following its long-term foreign policy.

Wang’s upcoming visits to Tanzania and Lesotho will strengthen China’s presence in East Africa. Relations between these countries and Western governments have recently faced strain. Tanzania faced criticism over election crackdowns, while Lesotho was hit with US tariffs.