Gabon and China elevate ties to shared future community
President Nguema and President Xi Jinping signed a joint declaration in Beijing on November 6, 2026.
Gabon and China established a "shared future community" on November 6, 2026, elevating their diplomatic relationship during President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema's state visit to Beijing. The agreement, signed with President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People, moves beyond the 2023 strategic partnership to focus on long-term economic development, sovereignty, and mutual interests.
China pledged to support Gabon's National Growth and Development Plan (PNCD) for 2026-2030, particularly in local resource transformation and infrastructure development. This commitment aims to help Gabon capture more value from its natural resources. Six memorandums of understanding were also signed, expanding cooperation into agriculture, digital economy, health, training, maritime security, and culture.
The two nations also plan to finalize an economic partnership agreement to sustain the duty-free access for Gabonese products to the Chinese market, effective since May 1, 2026. Modernizing the investment protection accord is another priority for both countries.
Why it mattersGabon's relationship with China has been upgraded, promising support for its national development plan and increased value capture from its resources.