Fifty African experts — including university professors, research institute directors, and think tank presidents — took part in the seminar on Chinese-style modernization and Africa’s development, held from July 17 to 24, 2025, in Shaanxi Province, China. Upon returning to their respective countries, several participants agreed to contribute to our column “Three Questions for the Participants of the Xi’an Seminar.” Today, we are joined by the representative from Djibouti, Mr. Kamil Dabaleh Ali.
Hello Mr. Kamil Dabaleh Ali! You are the representative of Djibouti at the Xi’an seminar on “Chinese-style modernization and Africa’s development.” Please introduce yourself and tell us your impressions following this major event focused on implementing the six main objectives and ten strategic partnership actions between China and Africa. I am Kamil Dabaleh Ali, researcher at the Institute of Political & Strategic Studies (IEPS) of Djibouti's Center for Studies and Research (DCSR). I must say that this seminar was a truly enriching experience for me. It was my first visit to China, and I came away with a very positive impression. The lectures, complemented by field visits and immersive experiences, allowed me to better understand the reality of Chinese-style modernization. I was particularly impressed by the level of development achieved in areas such as technology, agriculture, and infrastructure. This seminar also gave me the rare opportunity to meet Africans from nearly every country on the continent, to exchange ideas, and to share experiences.
What proposals do you have for a more people-centered China–Africa cooperation, from Djibouti’s perspective? Let me first recall that during the 9th Forum on China–Africa Cooperation Summit, held in Beijing on September 2, 2024, President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh and President Xi Jinping elevated Sino-Djiboutian relations to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership — the highest form of cooperation China maintains with any third country. This reflects not only the mutual trust between our two nations but also a shared commitment to building a better future. Djibouti, due to its geographic location at the crossroads of major maritime routes, plays a strategic role in connectivity between Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. This unique position can be further leveraged. In this context, and to make cooperation more responsive to the needs of our populations, we believe agriculture should be a priority. Our country faces aridity and water scarcity due to low rainfall, and China’s experience in irrigation, water management, and agricultural techniques suited to harsh environments could be especially valuable. A transfer of expertise would help develop more resilient agriculture adapted to our local conditions. Moreover, cooperation in infrastructure remains essential, particularly to improve both domestic and regional connectivity.
What do you think of the Xi’an Think Tank initiative for follow-up on the seminar? It’s an excellent idea. This think tank will help maintain connections after the seminar, monitor exchanges, and turn ideas into concrete projects that benefit local populations.
Interview by Héribert-Label Élisée ADJOVI / Special correspondent in Xi'an