Ambassador Yu Dunhai, China’s representative to Nigeria, has extended his congratulations to African nations and the broader developing world following a momentous resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
This landmark decision, made on March 25, 2026, during the 80th session of the UNGA, acknowledges the transatlantic slave trade and the racialized chattel enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity.
The resolution was adopted during a meeting commemorating the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, marking the first time the UN has officially recognized the trafficking and systemic enslavement of Africans among the most serious crimes in human history.
Ambassador Yu characterized this resolution as a significant milestone in the pursuit of historical justice, aligning it with the theme of the 38th African Union Summit, which focused on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
He emphasized that the resolution exemplifies the persistent efforts of African nations to elevate the issue of reparatory justice on the global platform.
Calling the adoption of the resolution profoundly significant, the ambassador noted that it affirms historical truths, upholds the dignity of humanity, and represents a collective victory for the international community in confronting the legacy of colonialism, fighting against racial discrimination, and promoting fairness and justice.
Yu highlighted that China joined 123 other countries in voting in favor of the resolution, reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to recognizing historical responsibilities and addressing the injustices stemming from the transatlantic slave trade.
He reiterated China’s position on “the right side of history,” underscoring its support for the legitimate aspirations of African nations and people of African descent for equality, justice, and recognition.
Reflecting on the historical ramifications of the transatlantic slave trade, Ambassador Yu described it as one of the darkest chapters in human civilization, where tens of millions of Africans endured trafficking, enslavement, and violence over centuries.
He noted that the lasting impacts of racialized enslavement continue to shape Africa’s development trajectory and the social and economic conditions experienced by people of African descent worldwide..
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.
While he announced the implementation of zero-tariff treatment for all African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing, Ambassador Yu Dunhai referenced this decision as a clear demonstration of China’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and supporting Africa’s economic revitalization.
Regarding discussions on the growing strategic relationship between China and Nigeria, Ambassador Yu pointed out the common historical experiences of both nations, including foreign domination and colonial exploitation. These shared backgrounds have forged a united commitment to sovereignty, dignity, and national development.
The ambassador emphasized that the bilateral relations between China and Nigeria have now been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, characterized by increasing political trust, expanding economic cooperation, and thriving people-to-people exchanges.
This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. Ambassador Yu expressed China’s eagerness to further align development strategies with Nigeria while expanding cooperation in various sectors to facilitate the country’s economic and social progress.
About the Author
