Chinese President Xi Jinping meets President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso in Beijing, capital of China, September 6, 2024. /Xinhua
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday held talks with President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo, who is in Beijing for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and a state visit.
During their talks, Xi extended a warm welcome to Sassou Nguesso for attending the FOCAC summit and making another state visit to China. Xi emphasized that the summit provided an opportunity for both sides to jointly reflect on the historical experience of China-Africa friendship, establish a new framework for China-Africa relations in the new era, and chart a course for advancing modernization together.
Xi highlighted the series of major initiatives announced at the summit, which will have far-reaching significance in shaping the future of China-Africa ties.
Xi congratulated the Republic of the Congo for successfully assuming the African co-chair position of FOCAC. He stressed that their meeting, following the summit's conclusion, demonstrates their shared commitment to building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.
Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso, in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People, prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, September 6, 2024. /Xinhua
Xi acknowledged the Republic of the Congo's steady progress in consolidating peace and development under Sassou Nguesso's leadership.
Marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Republic of Congo, Xi emphasized that the solid friendship between the two nations is rooted in deep political trust, shared ideals and unwavering mutual support.
He called for continued efforts to strengthen and develop these traditional ties, setting an example for China-Africa relations.
Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso, in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People, prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, September 6, 2024. /Xinhua
Sassou Nguesso said many Chinese companies have participated in projects across various sectors, such as fisheries and infrastructure, in the Republic of the Congo, and contributed to the country's economic and social development.
He expressed gratitude for China's strong support for Africa's development, saying the Republic of the Congo is ready to work closely with China to implement the outcomes of this summit.
After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation agreements in areas such as Belt and Road cooperation, the digital economy, human resources and news media.
The two sides issued a joint statement.
Before the talks, a welcoming ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People.