Josephus Moses Gray, Assistant Professor at University of Liberia has expressed optimism that the forthcoming Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will bring out more practical results, and breathe new vitality into the friendly relationship between China and Africa.

The Liberian academician made the statement during a panel discussion at the ongoing Seventh China-Africa Think Tank Forum in Beijing on Tuesday. He noted that the forthcoming FOCAC in September should make human resource development the focal point of its follow-up actions.

As one of several panelists at the forum, Assistant Professor Gray, spoke on the topic: China and Africa Countries’ independent Exploration of Development Paths; Experience and inspiration; and explained that China and Africa have shared historic facts.

According to him, China and Africa are faced with both historical opportunities for greater development and unprecedented challenges that without doubts are turning into prospects for both countries and peoples.

He stated that despite the vast oceans that separate China and Africa, the friendship between China and Africa remained unquestionable, which dates back to ancient times and transcended both time and space.

He said China is the world faster developing economy and holds the world largest population, while Africa is host of abundant rich natural resources, brilliant cultures, hard-working, talented and courageous people that have made significant contributor to the advancement of human civilization and world development.

He explained that Africa is one of the cradles of mankind and the continent seeks strength through harmony and accomplishing renaissance of civilization.

The people of Africa, he said have made great efforts on the path of a united front through unity, thus leaving behind glorious pages of success and notable endeavors.

Assistant Professor also emphasized the need for China to help African countries in areas of capacity building and development to enhance economic growth.

Another panelist Professor Zhu Xufeng, Vice Director School of Public Policy and Management at Tsinghua University, China’s premier institution said that Africa is rich with agricultural, mineral and human resources.

Prof. Zhu said that despite China appreciating globalization, they have been a victim also, he didn’t explain with details. He said that China and Africa relations are build on mutual trust and cooperation.

Africa, he indicated is the largest destination for Chinese investment and it was also important exchanges between China and Africa to be more pragmatic. He called on Africans to also invest in China.