China and Africa are linked by common experiences and interests, says an article in People's Daily (excerpts below).

The African Union hosted a special summit on May 25 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity, its predecessor.

China supports the unity of Africa and efforts to explore the continent's development path independently. The Forum on China-African Cooperation, which started in 2000, not only strengthens cooperation but also effectively promotes the development of the African continent.

Sino-Africa trade has grown at more than 30 percent annually for more than ten years. Since 2007, China's investment in Africa has increased at more than 28 percent each year. China also helps African countries to develop their own talent in various fields.

Mutual respect is a valuable characteristic of Sino-Africa ties.