On the occasion of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, the Chinese Embassy in Senegal organized an official reception at the Museum of Black Civilizations, in the presence of numerous personalities from the diplomatic, political and cultural worlds.

Under the banner of friendship and cooperation, the ceremony brought together General Birame Diop, Minister of the Armed Forces, representing the Senegalese government, Jean Koe Ntonga, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, as well as numerous ambassadors, representatives of international organizations and members of the Chinese diaspora in Senegal.

Li Zhigang, Chinese Ambassador to Senegal, highlighted his country's major achievements over the past 76 years. "Despite international uncertainties, the Chinese government's commitment remains constant: to work for the happiness of the people, promote the progress of humanity, and foster global harmony," he said.

The Chinese diplomat also praised the excellent Sino-Senegalese relations, strengthened in recent months by the official visits of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to China. These visits helped outline an ambitious roadmap for the coming years, with a particular focus on investment, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges.

The ambassador also highlighted the human dimension of this cooperation, with more than 11,000 jobs created thanks to Chinese companies established in Senegal, 85% of which are occupied by Senegalese. Initiatives in the fields of health, education, sports, and culture are multiplying. China is notably supporting Senegal in its preparations for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, with equipment donations, the rehabilitation of sports infrastructure, and training programs.

The Chinese diplomat also expressed his appreciation for the vitality of Senegalese youth and the numerous cultural exchanges between the two countries, citing the success of the film adaptation of "Such a Long Letter" and the Lions' performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Mr. Li Zhigang reaffirmed the importance of multilateral cooperation and the Global Governance Initiative led by President Xi Jinping, based on respect for international law, state sovereignty and dialogue between peoples.

"China needs the world for its development, just as the world needs China for its prosperity," he said, citing Chinese and Senegalese proverbs to illustrate the need for sincere solidarity among nations.

This celebration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China was an opportunity to reaffirm the friendship between China and Senegal, but also to express a common vision of a future based on peace, shared progress and the promotion of cultural identities.

The Chinese ambassador concluded on a hopeful note: "The momentum of our friendship and cooperation will continue to strengthen, and the partnership between China and Senegal will become ever more extensive and vibrant," he said.