China’s top diplomat warned against foreign interference in Tanzania on Saturday, closing a visit that sidestepped the violence clouding the nation’s recent elections.
Wang Yi became the first foreign minister to visit Tanzania officially since last year’s bloody crackdown on protesters challenging disputed presidential and parliamentary polls.
The Tanzanian opposition claims at least 2,000 people were killed by security forces after October’s vote, which international observers deemed fraudulent.
Beijing avoided public comment on the crackdown, even as the turmoil drew global criticism and prompted Washington to reassess relations with the East African state.
Tanzanian authorities said Wang congratulated the country for the “successful conduct” of the elections, praising stability where many see unresolved wounds.
China’s foreign ministry said it opposes external interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs and supports the country’s sovereignty and national security.
Wang also met President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who retained power last year with 98 percent of the vote, according to official results.
The Tanzanian presidency said he reaffirmed China’s firm support and pledged deeper cooperation as trade between the countries continues to rise.
China has expanded its presence in low-tax economic zones, where 343 Chinese-funded projects worth $3.1 billion were registered in 2025 alone.
After Tanzania, Wang is expected to continue his African tour in Lesotho, where US tariffs have strained relations with Washington.
He skipped a planned stop in Somalia, a potentially historic visit, amid reports of security concerns and diplomatic schedule changes.
Chinese officials said the postponement followed friendly negotiations, even as Somalia’s fractured politics cast long shadows across the region.