Dar es Salaam — President Samia Suluhu Hassan has held high-level talks with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and the revitalisation of the Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA).
The discussions took place as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at deepening the long-standing relationship between Tanzania and China, which spans decades of political, economic and infrastructure cooperation.
During the meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to expanding trade and investment ties, with President Samia highlighting Tanzania’s priority sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, transport and agriculture. She underscored Tanzania’s drive to attract quality investments that support industrialization, job creation and sustainable economic growth.
TAZARA featured prominently in the talks, reflecting its historical and strategic importance to both Tanzania and Zambia. The railway, built with Chinese support in the 1970s, remains a vital transport corridor for regional trade and mineral exports from Southern Africa to the Port of Dar es Salaam. Discussions centred on modernization, operational efficiency and long-term sustainability of the railway.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China’s readiness to continue supporting Tanzania’s development agenda, particularly through infrastructure development, investment promotion and enhanced trade cooperation. He noted that China views Tanzania as a key partner in East Africa and the wider continent.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues, reaffirming their commitment to multilateral cooperation, South–South collaboration and the principles of mutual respect and shared development.
The meeting reflects Tanzania’s broader foreign policy approach under President Samia, which emphasises economic diplomacy, strategic partnerships and leveraging international cooperation to support national development goals.
Tanzania and China continue to enjoy strong diplomatic relations, with China remaining one of Tanzania’s major trading partners and sources of foreign direct investment.
