TANZANIA has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with China, calling for expanded cooperation in trade, investment, culture, education and tourism under the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, James Milya, made the remarks at the weekend during a reception in Dar es Salaam celebrating 2026 Chinese New Year.

Milia noted that the Spring Festival, which ushers in the Year of the Horse, symbolizes renewal and shared aspirations while offering a moment to reflect on achievements from the previous Year of the Snake.

“China remains one of Tanzania’s most important strategic partners, contributing to our national development through growing trade, increased investment, and expanding cultural and educational exchanges,” he said. 

He emphasized that Tanzania will continue working closely with China in regional and multilateral forums to promote peace, development, and inclusive growth.

Milya also highlighted Tanzania’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), urging Chinese partners to support the construction and upgrading of stadia and related infrastructure. 

He described the tournament as a key opportunity to boost sports, tourism and urban development.

Chargé d’Affaires at the Chinese Embassy in Tanzania, Wang Yong, said bilateral relations had reached new heights under the guidance of the two heads of state, driven by growing political trust and stronger economic cooperation.

Wang highlighted the recent visit by Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and China’s Foreign Minister, describing it as a major boost to Tanzania–China relations. 

The visit marked the 36th consecutive year that China’s foreign minister choses Africa as the first overseas destination of the year and the first visit to Tanzania since the formation of its new government.

He said the visit reaffirmed China’s support for Tanzania and produced a joint communiqué committing both countries to implement agreements reached by their leaders and outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

 Priority areas of cooperation include modernization of the Tanzania and Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), development of a TAZARA prosperity belt and closer alignment of national development strategies.

Wang also noted that Chinese enterprises, professionals, teachers, and students in Tanzania continue to contribute to local economic and social development while strengthening people-to-people ties. 

He highlighted 2026 as a milestone year, marking China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, the 70th anniversary of China–Africa diplomatic relations, the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges and the 50th anniversary of TAZARA operation.