Africa needs partners in its pursuit of stability

By Fred S. Teng |

China Daily Global |

Africa should not be treated as a problem to be managed, but should be respected as a continent of sovereign nations, ancient civilizations, young populations, vast resources, expanding markets and historic potential.

For too long, much of the outside world has spoken about Africa through the language of crisis. Conflict, poverty, debt, migration, disease, corruption and instability often dominate the headlines. These realities cannot be ignored. But they are not the whole story. Africa is also a continent of creativity, resilience, entrepreneurship, culture, energy, agriculture, minerals, digital innovation and human ambition.

The central question is not whether Africa matters, as Africa clearly does matter. The real question is whether the international community will support Africa's stability and development in a way that respects African agency, strengthens African capacity and advances long-term peace and prosperity.