China and Gabon elevate ties, pledge mining and security cooperation

· Trade · China

China and Gabon elevated their diplomatic ties during a state visit by the Central African nation's president to China, and said in a joint statement on Friday they are looking to deepen cooperation in mining and security. The upgrade reflects Beijing's push to secure access to minerals and expand its influence across resource-rich Africa. Gabon is a significant producer of manganese and other minerals used in industry and batteries, making the partnership relevant to global supply chains beyond the two countries.

Why it matters:China's deepening ties with resource-rich African states shape global competition for critical minerals and security partnerships.

Key points

  • The upgrade came during Gabon's president's state visit.
  • The two sides plan deeper mining and security cooperation.
  • Gabon is a significant manganese producer.

Sources (original reporting)

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