Chinese President Xi Jinping extended formal congratulations to Paul Biya on Friday following his re-election as president of Cameroon, reaffirming Beijing's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The gesture underscores China's growing diplomatic engagement in Africa amid evolving global partnerships.
In his message, Xi highlighted the 'traditional friendship' between the two nations, noting deepened political trust and 'fruitful results' in cross-sector cooperation. The leaders have consistently supported each other on core interests, a dynamic Xi described as foundational to their comprehensive strategic partnership.
With 2024 marking the 55th anniversary of China-Cameroon diplomatic relations, Xi emphasized this milestone as a catalyst for advancing collaboration. He pledged to work with Biya to implement outcomes from the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, aiming to expand economic and developmental synergies.
The exchange comes as China continues to expand its Belt and Road Initiative in Africa, with Cameroon serving as a strategic partner in infrastructure and trade projects. Analysts suggest this reaffirmation of ties signals Beijing's intent to consolidate influence in Central Africa through sustained diplomatic and economic engagement.
