China and Gabon have agreed to strengthen cooperation in mining, security, trade and other sectors as the two countries elevated their diplomatic relations during a state visit by Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema to Beijing.
The agreement was reached during talks between President Oligui Nguema and Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to a joint statement released by China’s state-run Xinhua news agency.
The two countries pledged to pursue closer high-level exchanges involving their political leaders, governments, ruling parties, legislatures and local authorities.
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Both sides were willing to deepen cooperation in the mining sector, with China pledging to support Gabon in harnessing its natural resources to drive economic development.
China and Gabon also committed to strengthening cooperation in peace and security, including expanding exchanges between their armed forces and law enforcement and security agencies.
The joint statement further called for increased cooperation in trade, education and public health.
Speaking during his meeting with President Oligui Nguema in Beijing on Friday, Xi said China was willing to remain a reliable partner in Gabon’s development.
“China is willing to be a reliable friend and partner in Gabon’s independent development,” the Chinese leader was quoted as saying by state media.
Reuters
