On the heels of his visit to France, Xi Jinping will fly to Zimbabawe for a two-day state visit, during which the two countries will sign major deals on infrastructure, investment, cultural exchange and wildlife protection. President Xi will then visit South Africa and attend the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.

"This is a historic summit for China and Africa. So far, over 36 African heads of state and 5 heads of government, 3 Vice-Presidents and the African Union Commission Chairman have confirmed their attendance. This year's forum is the largest so far and its participants are at the highest-level, and it will cover the widest range of issues and see the most deals signed ever," said Zhang Ming, Chinese vice foreign minister.