Gabon and China celebrate 52 years of strong diplomatic ties

In a gathering that blended tradition with modern diplomacy, Gabon and China marked the 99th founding anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at the Chinese embassy in Libreville. The event underscored not only the historical ties between the two nations but also the depth of their ongoing partnership, coinciding with the 52nd year since diplomatic relations were established.

The Chinese ambassador to Gabon, Zhou Ping, highlighted the significance of this milestone during his address. He revealed that President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has been invited to China in November by his counterpart, Xi Jinping, to further strengthen bilateral relations. The ambassador also reflected on the PLA’s journey, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping China’s national development and socialist modernization under the guidance of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

“For over a century, the CPC has led the Chinese people and its armed forces in achieving extraordinary milestones for national independence, economic progress, and the advancement of socialism with Chinese characteristics in this new era,” he stated, addressing a room filled with prominent officials and diplomats.

Amidst a global landscape marked by instability and conflict, the ambassador reiterated China’s unwavering commitment to peace through dialogue. He spotlighted the “four global initiatives” introduced by President Xi Jinping—focused on development, security, civilization, and global governance—as blueprints for fostering international harmony and shared prosperity.

Concrete examples of Gabon-China collaboration were also highlighted. The ambassador cited the 2024 visit of China’s “Ark of Peace”, a hospital ship that made its second stop in Gabon, as well as the recent reception of a Chinese military medical mission in Libreville. These initiatives, he noted, have infused fresh momentum into the military cooperation between the two countries.

The event also served as an introduction to Gabon’s new defense attaché: Colonel Zhang Song, who recently assumed his role in the Chinese embassy.