China, Gabon agree to bolster ties

Nations' friendship built on rock-solid foundations, says Xi

President Xi Jinping and Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership on Wednesday as the two nations pledged to bolster cooperation on infrastructure, agriculture and the response to climate change.

In talks with Bongo at the Great Hall of the People, Xi also reiterated Beijing's unwavering support for African nations in following an independent path of development and its firm backing for Africa's efforts in advancing food security, industrialization and green development.

Before their talks, the president gave the Gabonese leader, who is on a four-day state visit to China, a grand welcoming ceremony with a 21-gun salute, a review of the guard of honor and the performances of military bands.