Senegal's PM meets China's envoy over Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics
Prime Minister LO discussed the ongoing Youth Olympic Games with Gao Zhidan, China's special envoy and Olympic Committee president.
Senegalese Prime Minister Ahmadou Alhaminou Mouhamed LO met China's special envoy Gao Zhidan on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in Dakar. The discussions focused on the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, which are currently underway in the Senegalese capital. Gao Zhidan, who is also the President of the Chinese Olympic Committee, reaffirmed China's interest in the international sporting event.
China is participating in the Youth Olympic Games with a large delegation of athletes, demonstrating its support for the first edition of the games held on the African continent. The games are taking place in Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly until November 13, 2026, bringing together young athletes from around the world.
The opening ceremony, led by Khady Niang, was described as "profoundly human" and a gesture of African pride, focusing on history and youth energy rather than technology. Niang, who has a background in finance and film makeup, led the ceremonies for the JOJ Dakar 2026.
Why it mattersSenegal is hosting the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, an event involving international athletes and significant diplomatic engagement.