Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy Shao Hong reinforced bilateral ties with the Republic of the Congo this week, attending President Denis Sassou Nguesso's inauguration ceremony in Brazzaville on April 16, 2026. The visit underscores China's commitment to deepening partnerships in Africa amid growing Global South collaboration.
Shao, vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, met with Sassou Nguesso at the presidential palace on April 17. During their discussion, Shao conveyed President Xi's greetings and emphasized China's prioritization of bilateral relations, stating both nations would advance cooperation through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
"China is ready to work with the Congolese side to implement consensus between our leaders and strengthen solidarity among developing nations," Shao said, highlighting plans to expand economic collaboration and address global challenges.
President Sassou Nguesso reciprocated the goodwill, thanking China for its diplomatic support and expressing commitment to "advance a high-level community with a shared future." The Congolese leader pledged to enhance coordination with Beijing on international issues while expanding sectoral cooperation.
The meeting comes as China marks 60 years of diplomatic relations with the Republic of the Congo in 2026, with both nations currently co-chairing FOCAC. Analysts view the engagement as part of Beijing's broader strategy to bolster African partnerships through infrastructure investment and multilateral frameworks.
