Chinese President Xi Jinping extended formal congratulations to Faustin-Archange Touadera on Tuesday following his re-election as President of the Central African Republic (CAR). The message underscores Beijing's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with African nations amid growing economic partnerships across the continent.
In his statement, Xi emphasized China's willingness to deepen mutual political trust and expand practical cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative framework. The CAR has been a key partner in Central Africa since joining the initiative in 2018, with collaboration spanning infrastructure development, public health, and mineral resource management.
Analysts note the timing coincides with increased Chinese investment in CAR's mining sector, particularly in gold and uranium extraction. This development comes as several Western companies reduce operations due to security concerns, creating opportunities for Chinese state-backed enterprises.
The diplomatic exchange follows recent progress on the CAR's Ndassima gold mine project, operated by China's National Gold Group. Local authorities report the venture has created over 1,200 jobs while funding road rehabilitation projects connecting Bangui to mining regions.
