OKECH FRANCIS
Africa-Press – South-Sudan. Last October, the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) convened its Fourth Plenary Session, unveiling a roadmap for the country’s next phase of modernization. The resolutions emphasized innovation, openness, reform, and global partnerships—especially with developing nations. For South Sudan, a young country navigating post-conflict reconstruction and economic transformation, these priorities present a timely opportunity to deepen its strategic partnership with China.
On October 30, the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan, in a follow-up, hosted a symposium titled “Key Outcomes of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC and Jointly Advancing Modernization by China and South Sudan.” The event brought together officials, scholars, and development partners to reflect on China’s evolving policy direction and its implications for bilateral cooperation. The Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Ma Qiang, offered a detailed interpretation of the Fourth Plenary Session’s significance and outlined the strategic pillars of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan. Ambassador Ma also emphasized China’s readiness to work hand-in-hand with South Sudan in advancing modernization, fostering shared development, and delivering tangible benefits to both nations. His remarks underscored the importance of aligning national priorities and deepening mutual understanding as a foundation for long-term partnership. The symposium served as a platform to explore how China’s domestic reforms and global outreach—particularly toward the Global South—can support South Sudan’s post-conflict recovery and economic transformation.
This commentary looks at the symposium and the CPC’s resolutions in exploring how China’s domestic agenda can align with South Sudan’s development imperatives, and how both nations can forge a mutually beneficial path forward.
Strategic alignment: Policy frameworks and development priorities
China’s modernization blueprint includes digital transformation, green development, and industrial upgrading. It also commits to expanding global partnerships through the 15th Five-Year Plan, which prioritizes infrastructure expansion, technological innovation, rural revitalization, and multilateral cooperation. These goals reflect China’s evolving role as a global development partner, particularly in Africa.
South Sudan, emerging from years of civil conflict, faces urgent challenges: rebuilding infrastructure and basic services, diversifying its oil-dependent economy, strengthening governance, and enhancing food security. China’s resolutions offer a framework that resonates with these needs. The question is how to translate this alignment into action. The following are the key areas for strengthening our two countries’ cooperation in the future:
1. Infrastructure development
Infrastructure is central to modernization. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy. In South Sudan, infrastructure is both a necessity and a catalyst for peace and development. Chinese firms have already contributed to building highways and bridges. Strengthening this cooperation could establish critical transport corridors linking Juba to regional markets. Hydropower and solar investments could reduce reliance on diesel and expand access to electricity. Urban water supply and irrigation systems would support agriculture and public health. These projects not only fulfill China’s modernization goals but also anchor South Sudan’s national development strategy.
2. Trade and investment relations
Trade and investment are equally vital. China’s pledge to offer zero-tariff treatment to 100 percent of products from 53 African countries, including South Sudan, opens new doors. Exports such as sesame, Gum Arabic, and livestock can now access Chinese markets more competitively. Joint ventures in oil, mining, and agriculture can attract Chinese capital and technology. Special Economic Zones (SEZs), developed with Chinese support, could stimulate manufacturing and job creation—advancing South Sudan’s economic diversification.
3. Agriculture modernization
Agriculture offers another pillar of shared prosperity. China’s rural revitalization campaign provides valuable lessons for South Sudan’s agricultural transformation. Collaboration could include irrigation, mechanization, seed technology, and agronomic training. Investment in agro-processing and value chains would reduce post-harvest losses and boost exports. Agriculture is not just an economic sector—it’s a foundation for food security, peace, and inclusive growth.
4. Digital transformation and education
Digital infrastructure and education present further opportunities. China’s push for innovation can help South Sudan leapfrog traditional development pathways. ICT hubs, expanded internet access, and mobile services would enhance connectivity. E-governance platforms could improve public service delivery and transparency. China’s scholarships and vocational training programs for South Sudanese students build capacity in engineering, public health, and administration. These efforts support China’s innovation agenda while empowering South Sudan’s youth and institutions.
5. Governance and peacebuilding
Governance and peacebuilding are also critical. China’s resolutions emphasize reform and institutional strengthening. For South Sudan, this opens avenues for collaboration in public administration reform, anti-corruption strategies, and conflict resolution frameworks. While China maintains a policy of non-interference, its development diplomacy can support South Sudan’s governance journey.
Implementation mechanisms: From policy to practice
The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit was successfully held in 2024. This platform remains vital for aligning strategic goals. South Sudan can leverage FOCAC to secure funding for priority projects, participate in regional dialogues, and align its national development plan with China’s global initiatives.
China always supports South Sudan’s national development and respects its sovereignty. This resonates with South Sudanese officials and citizens who view China not just as a donor, but as a partner in transformation. Local entrepreneurs, farmers, and students are increasingly engaging with Chinese counterparts, creating a grassroots foundation for cooperation.
Conclusion
As China enters a new phase of socialist modernization, its relationship with South Sudan can evolve in new ways. By aligning strategic resolutions with local realities, both nations can build a partnership that delivers peace, prosperity, and progress.
This is not just about roads and trade—it’s about vision, values, and the shared belief that development is a right, not a privilege.
Deng Xiaoping, the Chinese statesman who helped transform China into a global economic powerhouse, once said, “Development is the hard truth.” For South Sudan and China, that truth lies in cooperation, mutual respect, and the courage to dream beyond borders. The key outcomes of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee offer a blueprint—not just for China’s future, but for a new chapter in China–Africa/South Sudan relations.
Source: Radio Tamazuj
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