Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan has paid an official visit to Gabon. He held talks with Gabonese President Ali Bongo, Prime Minister Emmanuel Ngondet, and the Defense Minister Etienne Makaga. Chang's visit sought to strengthen military ties between the two countries. President Bongo expressed hope the two sides will work together to address regional challenges. China and Gabon have held long decades of friendship. In December 2016, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Gabonese counterpart agreed to work closer together and boost bilateral relations.