On November 24, 2024, Researcher An Chunying, Associate Researcher Zhang Chunyu, and Dr. Lin Xuefen from the Institute of West Asian and African Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, together with four scholars from Northwest University, visited Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and conducted in-depth research and exchanges at the office of Mainland Group West Africa Company. This research was conducted to implement the spirit of the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit, investigate the operation status of Chinese-funded enterprises in Côte d’Ivoire, and discuss topics including high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Côte d’Ivoire as well as bilateral economic and trade collaboration.

Zhang Liang, President of West Africa Region at Mainland Group, elaborated on Côte d’Ivoire’s important position in the global rubber market and the positive impact of Mainland Group and its affiliated factories on the local economy. He pointed out that Côte d’Ivoire is one of the major rubber-producing countries worldwide. Drawing on profound experience and technological advantages in the rubber sector, Mainland Group has become a backbone player in Côte d’Ivoire’s rubber industry.

Following extensive exchanges and discussions, Associate Researcher Zhang Chunyu from the Institute of West Asian and African Studies presented a carefully prepared gift to Zhang Liang, President of West Africa Region at Mainland Group, on behalf of the research team, to express gratitude for Mainland Group’s warm reception and support throughout the research.