On April 15, 2016, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Yu Zhengsheng, who was on an official goodwill visit to Côte d'Ivoire, held in Abidjan a discussion with representatives of local overseas Chinese.

Yu Zhengsheng first listened to the speeches of seven representatives of overseas Chinese. Chairman of the Cote d'Ivoire Federation of Overseas Chinese Lin Xinkuan said that overseas Chinese in Côte d'Ivoire bear concerns for their motherland, carry forward the fine traditions of Chinese nation, and work hard to integrate themselves into the local society. Honorary Chairman Ouyang Riping introduced that during his entrepreneurship in the country over 27 years, he seized the favorable opportunity of the great development of China-Africa cooperation to continuously expand business coverage and revenue. Secretary-general Huang Ying said through a integrity-based management for years, she has earned the trust from local governmental departments, and undertaken the supply of educational materials for primary and secondary schools in the country. Overseas compatriot Lin Ying said that overseas Chinese usually encounter such difficulties as language barrier and unfamiliarity with local law and culture. Therefore, the Chinese community in Côte d'Ivoire often help each other. Overseas compatriot Wang Wenjun introduced that his company strictly abides by the local Labor Law, follows the regulation on labor contracts, and offers training opportunities for local employees. Overseas compatriot Liu Limin said only by proactively assuming the social responsibilities and participating in the development of local cultural and educational work, can overseas Chinese have a better development. Overseas compatriot Gao Jian said each overseas Chinese stands for a five-star red flag, and should consciously maintain the image of motherland and nationality.

After carefully listening to the speeches, Yu Zhengsheng said that from your stories, I noticed that although every overseas Chinese had an arduous history, encountered some difficulties and obstacles, and tasted joys and sorrows, you finally made great achievements in your careers. Every one's experience could be made into an excellent movie.

Yu Zhengsheng pointed out that overseas Chinese have the tradition of patriotism. They once provided financial support for Mr. Sun Yat-sen's revolutionary cause and donated large sums of money during the period of Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Many overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia took part in the construction of the Burma Road, and some of them even sacrificed their lives for it. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, overseas Chinese have made great contributions to the development of China and proactively devoted themselves to the cause of reform and opening-up, which also promoted themselves in return.

Yu Zhengsheng expressed that a prosperous China is a strong backing for overseas Chinese. Today, China has become a major country with worldwide influence, and all major international affairs require the participation of China. However, China will not follow the old path of traditional powers by carrying forward colonialism, seeking hegemony and establishing sphere of influence. China follows the path of mutual benefit and win-win results, and will develop through promoting the common development of all countries. Only by clarifying rational responsibilities for different countries and giving play to the economic advantages of each country, can all countries reap more economic benefits. More trade between countries will lead to more economic opportunities and more economic returns. From the historic perspective, the direction and objective of such cooperation conform to economic and social laws.

Yu Zhengsheng stressed that President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road initiative and announced to carry out 10 major China-Africa cooperation plans at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Johannesburg last December. Such an excellent situation on China-Africa cooperation has brought favorable opportunities to overseas Chinese in Africa. The sound development of overseas Chinese in Africa is not only the support for the development of China, but also an organic component of a strong China and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Yu Zhengsheng put forward several expectations to overseas Chinese in Côte d'Ivoire. First, respect local people. Every country has its distinctive culture, traditions and customs formed over a long period of time. At first one may not understand them, but it doesn't mean that they are wrong. Overseas Chinese must eliminate such subconscious prejudices, make an effort to understand the local cultural customs, respect each other, and treat others as equals.

Second, abide by local laws. Overseas Chinese must work according to the laws of the country of residence, and resolve conflicts and disputes in accordance with the law. In this regard, there is no territorial difference. For illegal acts occurred in the country of residence, overseas Chinese should support local government to deal with them in accordance with the law rather than offer unprincipled protection. One can only earnestly follow local laws and regulations after a thorough study on them.

Third, pursue both righteousness and benefit. Chinese people often say that one should not forsake good for the sake of gold. Overseas Chinese must uphold honesty, ensure the product quality, and refuse cheating. Overseas Chinese should enhance the awareness of social responsibility, protect local environment, actively take part in the cause of public good, and integrate themselves into the local society. Only by doing so can overseas Chinese acquire sound opportunities and conditions for further development.

After expressing their gratitude for the concern and support from the motherland, representatives of overseas Chinese said that they will live up to the earnest expectations of Chairman Yu Zhengsheng and make more contributions to promoting China-Africa friendship.

There are about 4,000 overseas Chinese in Côte d'Ivoire, and 30 representatives from all walks of life attended the discussion.