On 14 May, Ambassador Huang Shifang met with newly-appointed Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) Secretary-General Ibrahim Norbert Richard.

Ambassador Huang stated that China highly values the important role of the IOC as a regional cooperation organization, and stands ready to further strengthen communication and coordination with it. She expressed the hope of advancing the implementation of zero-tariff treatment for all African countries having diplomatic relations with China, so as to better benefit countries and peoples in the region.

Secretary-General Richard expressed appreciation for China’s long-standing support for the IOC and its Secretariat, and looked forward to further strengthening communication and coordination with China, jointly promoting the regional cooperation.