China and Gabon mark 52 years of strengthened ties with new milestones

The 99th anniversary of the founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was marked in Libreville with a gathering that underscored the enduring partnership between Gabon and China. The event, held at the Chinese embassy, brought together senior officials and diplomats to reflect on decades of collaboration.

During the ceremony, the Chinese ambassador to Gabon, Zhou Ping, highlighted the robust relationship between the two nations. He noted that 2024 also commemorates 52 years since Gabon and China first established diplomatic ties. The occasion was further elevated by the announcement of Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who is set to visit China in November at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Zhou also pointed to two major milestones for Beijing in 2026: the 90th anniversary of the Long March’s victory and the 105th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of China (CPC). He reflected on the party’s century-long leadership, stating, “For over a century, the CPC has steered the Chinese people and the PLA in achieving remarkable contributions to national independence, economic growth, and the construction of socialism with Chinese characteristics in this new era.”

Promoting peace in a turbulent world

Amidst “a world of upheaval and conflict,” the ambassador reiterated China’s commitment to diplomacy and peaceful resolution. He emphasized the “four global initiatives” introduced by President Xi Jinping—focusing on development, security, cultural exchange, and international governance—as key pillars of China’s vision for global peace and progress.

Two recent examples of this cooperation were highlighted: the 2024 visit of China’s “Ark of Peace,” a hospital ship that completed its second stop in Gabon, and the recent reception of a Chinese military medical mission in Libreville. These efforts, he noted, have reinvigorated military ties between the two countries.

The evening also introduced Gabon’s latest defense attaché, Colonel Zhang Song, who will represent China’s evolving military presence in the capital.