BY HALVIN PIERRE JUNIOR BESSAYI
The coup d’état in Gabon on August 30, 2023 has had a substantial impact on the bilateral relations between Gabon and China, prompting a reevaluation of their diplomatic and commercial connections.
In light of the political turmoil in Gabon, a strategic African country, inquiries emerge about the prospective trajectory of its association with China, a pivotal economic and diplomatic partner.
This article explores the intricate dynamics of the China-Gabon bilateral ties, taking into account historical backdrop, immediate consequences, China’s reaction, and the potential for partnership in a post-coup environment.
Historical context of Sino-Gabonese relations
The bilateral ties between China and Gabon have seen significant developments over decades, characterized by a focus on economic collaboration and diplomatic interactions.
The diplomatic relations were formally established in 1974, and since then, the fundamental aspect of this bilateral partnership has been economic cooperation.
Gabon, with substantial reserves of valuable natural resources such as oil, lumber, and manganese, garnered the attention of China due to its need to secure access to these crucial commodities in order to sustain its fast-growing economy.
As a result, China emerged as a prominent participant in Gabon’s extractive sectors, making substantial investments in infrastructure and initiatives aimed at developing the country’s resources.
There was an expansion of economic collaboration in diverse industries such as agriculture, telecommunications, and construction, whereby Chinese enterprises played an active role in several infrastructural initiatives. The establishment of economic interdependence served as the basis for a mutually advantageous collaboration.
Both nations have often shown diplomatic efforts in seeking consensus on various matters such as promoting multilateralism, addressing climate change, and pursuing reforms within international organizations. Gabon has shown its endorsement of the One-China policy, aligning its stance with China on politically difficult issues.
Throughout the course of time, the establishment of cultural exchanges, academic scholarships, and interpersonal connections has served to fortify the relationship between the two countries, cultivating a sentiment of benevolence and reciprocal understanding.
The historical backdrop of Sino-Gabonese ties is characterized by a significant degree of economic reliance and diplomatic alignment. The future trajectory of the political environment in Gabon is likely to be influenced by the historical underpinnings of its relationship, particularly in light of the coup.
Impact of coup d’état on bilateral relations
The coup d’état has had a significant influence on the bilateral ties between the two states.
The sudden transition in governance prompted inquiries on the ongoing validity and sustainability of preexisting agreements and initiatives between the two states.
In April, deposed President Ali Bongo Ondimba made a state visit to China at the invitation of his counterpart, Xi Jinping. During the visit, ‘eight legal instruments were signed’, Foreign Affairs minister Hermann Immongault told the online media One Gabon.
The agreements covered ‘agriculture, housing and urban development, climate change, the twinning of the Lopé and Peace national parks, the global development initiative, investment and economic cooperation, the rehabilitation of the Senate, and the Gabonese and Chinese press agencies’. The two heads of state also jointly agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperation partnership.
Moreover, the current political turmoil has prompted China and Gabon to reevaluate their diplomatic relations. The newly established government in Gabon is confronted with the task of maintaining stability and instilling confidence in its foreign counterparts, notably China, about its unwavering dedication to prior accords.
In the present context, China is faced with the intricate task of managing the intricate equilibrium between its non-interventionist approach and its vested interests in Gabon’s valuable resources and infrastructural initiatives.
The coup further underscores the need for political stability in fostering economic collaboration. The establishment of a favorable climate for Chinese investments has become a pressing priority for the new Gabonese administration, aiming to maintain strong economic relations with China, despite the changes in political landscape.
The coup d’état has also had a substantial impact on the balance of Sino-Gabonese relations, necessitating adjustments from both sides to navigate a novel and unpredictable political environment.
China’s response post-coup
China has shown a cautious approach and commitment to its established foreign policy standards in its reaction to the coup d’état..
At the outset, Beijing voiced concern over the political volatility in Gabon, while concurrently affirming its steadfast adherence to its principle of non-intervention in the domestic affairs of sovereign states.
China’s post-coup approach seems to prioritize the preservation of stability in its diplomatic ties with Gabon. This entails actively interacting with the newly formed administration, while prudently evaluating the dynamic political environment. The stability of the environment is crucial for China’s economic pursuits in Gabon, including its investments in resource extraction and infrastructure projects.
In pursuit of this objective, it is probable that China would take a pragmatic stance, aiming to safeguard the continuation of current accords and foster economic collaboration. Nevertheless, it is plausible that Beijing may exert influence on the Gabonese government to place a higher emphasis on maintaining political stability and fostering an environment that is favorable for Chinese investors.
The existing economic interdependence and diplomatic alignment between China and Gabon are now encountering difficulties within the context of the post-coup scenario.
Since the military seized power, China Ambassador to Gabon Li Jinjin has been received in audience by the new authorities of the ‘Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions’ CTRI and by several members of the newly-appointed transition government.
These include the new leader Brig Gen Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Prime Minister Raymond Ndong Sima, Economy and Finance Minister Mays Mouissi.
Their discussions focused on expanding and strengthening bilateral cooperation between China and Gabon. Ambassador Li reaffirmed China’s commitment to Gabon, which goes beyond the current regimes.
He was also delighted to see that Gabon has begun to formulate a roadmap and timetable for the transition period, which is favourable for investment. His visits are in line with the vision of the President of the Transition to respect diplomatic agreements.
The reaction and post-coup policy of China in Gabon demonstrate its meticulous approach in maintaining a delicate equilibrium between non-interference and the protection of its economic interests. This underscores the intricate nature of China’s position as it navigates the ambiguous landscape of bilateral ties in the aftermath of the coup.
Conclusion
The coup introduced a sense of ambiguity about the state of Sino-Gabonese bilateral ties.
The existing economic interdependence and diplomatic alignment between China and Gabon are now encountering difficulties within the context of the post-coup scenario. China’s measured reaction, which prioritizes non-intervention, demonstrates its dedication to safeguarding its interests in Gabon, while refraining from direct engagement in domestic matters.
The primary focus for the newly established Gabonese administration should be on maintaining political stability to guarantee the uninterrupted continuation of economic collaboration with China.
In light of the evolving political landscape, it is imperative for both countries to engage in open and constructive communication to preserve the strength and durability of their bilateral ties.
Halvin Bessayi is a Masters in International Relations student at the China Foreign Affairs University
