Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy Shao Hong will travel to Brazzaville this week to attend the April 16 inauguration of Republic of the Congo President Denis Sassou-N'Guesso, according to a Tuesday announcement from China's foreign ministry.
Shao Hong, who serves as vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, will represent Beijing at the ceremony at the invitation of President Sassou-N'Guesso. The visit underscores China's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with African partners amid growing economic cooperation across the continent.
Analysts view this high-level diplomatic engagement as part of China's continued efforts to deepen ties with resource-rich African nations. The Republic of the Congo has been a key partner in China's Belt and Road Initiative, with multiple infrastructure projects underway in the Central African country.
This year marks the 56th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Republic of the Congo, with bilateral trade reaching $2.9 billion in 2025 according to preliminary estimates. The envoy's attendance at the inauguration ceremony signals Beijing's support for continued political stability and economic development in the region.
