…as Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirms support for justice and reparations for Africans and people of African descent
By Nkechi Eze
China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has congratulated African countries and the broader developing world on the adoption of a historic resolution by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declaring the transatlantic slave trade and the racialised chattel enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.
The landmark resolution was adopted during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly on March 25, 2026, at a meeting held to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The decision marks the first time the global body has adopted a dedicated resolution formally recognising the trafficking of enslaved Africans and their systemic enslavement as among the most serious crimes in human history.
Ambassador Yu described the resolution as a significant milestone in the global quest for historical justice, noting that it aligns with the theme of the 38th African Union Summit which focused on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.” According to him, the adoption of the resolution reflects sustained efforts by African nations to advance the issue of reparatory justice on the international stage.
He noted that the decision carries profound historical significance as it affirms historical truth, defends the shared dignity of humanity, and represents a collective victory by the international community in confronting the legacy of colonialism, resisting racial discrimination, and promoting fairness and justice.
The ambassador revealed that China joined 123 other countries in voting in favour of the resolution, reaffirming Beijing’s longstanding position in support of acknowledging historical responsibilities and addressing injustices stemming from the transatlantic slave trade.
He emphasised that China has consistently stood on what he described as the “right side of history,” supporting the legitimate demands of African nations and people of African descent in their pursuit of equality, justice, and recognition.
Reflecting on the historical impact of the transatlantic slave trade, Yu described it as one of the darkest chapters in human civilisation, noting that tens of millions of Africans were subjected to trafficking, enslavement, and brutality over centuries. The enduring consequences of racialised enslavement, he said, continue to influence Africa’s development trajectory and the social and economic realities of people of African descent across the world.
According to the Chinese envoy, the UN resolution contributes to restoring historical truth and strengthening global efforts to confront structural racism and contemporary discrimination. He added that it also provides an important legal and moral framework for advancing discussions around historical reparations, the return of looted cultural artefacts, and healing the generational trauma associated with slavery.
Yu further highlighted that the adoption of the resolution reflects the collective will of the international community to defend equal human rights and reject all forms of enslavement and oppression.
He also used the occasion to reflect on the long-standing partnership between China and African countries, noting that 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the African continent.
Over the decades, he said, China’s approach to Africa has remained consistent, centred on mutual respect, support for development, and non-interference in the internal affairs of African nations. He stressed that China-Africa cooperation is built on equality and focuses on development outcomes that directly improve the welfare of African citizens.
As an example of this cooperation, Yu referenced China’s recent decision to implement zero-tariff treatment for all African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing, describing the move as a demonstration of mutually beneficial partnership and China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s economic revitalisation.
The ambassador also highlighted the growing strategic partnership between China and Nigeria, noting that both countries share historical experiences of foreign domination and colonial exploitation, which have shaped their shared commitment to sovereignty, dignity, and national development.
He observed that under the leadership of both countries, bilateral relations have been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with increasing political trust, expanding economic cooperation, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges.
Yu noted that this year also marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, expressing Beijing’s readiness to further align development strategies with Nigeria and expand cooperation across multiple sectors to support the country’s economic and social progress.
Addressing global geopolitical tensions, the Chinese ambassador criticised what he described as rising hegemonism, power politics, and unilateral actions that undermine the existing international order. He warned that colonial-era thinking and the principle of “might makes right” continue to threaten global stability.
He stressed that history has repeatedly shown that power politics and unilateral pressure cannot command lasting legitimacy, adding that genuine progress in international relations must be built on multilateral cooperation, respect for sovereignty, and the rejection of racial discrimination and hegemonic practices.
The envoy concluded by reaffirming China’s commitment to strengthening solidarity and cooperation with African countries, particularly Nigeria, while supporting Africa’s quest for greater representation and influence in global governance institutions.
He maintained that China would continue to stand alongside African nations in defending their national dignity, advancing development, and promoting international fairness and justice.
According to him, the adoption of the UN resolution represents a powerful step toward global historical accountability and renewed momentum for cooperation between China and Africa, adding that sustained partnership between the two sides would contribute to a future built on equality, dignity, and shared prosperity.
