Routine or rising tensions? Chinese ambassadors in exodus from West African nations
Chinese ambassadors from West
African nations have bid farewell to their host countries in recent weeks.
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While some analysts suggest their departure could be routine
rotations for diplomats , one said it could be a subtle message sent to Sahelian regimes amid
rising tensions over resource nationalism and security concerns.
In Senegal, a new Chinese ambassador, Li Zhigang, was welcomed in May, replacing Xiao Han, who had served for around four years.
In Guinea, Huang Wei is concluding his seven-year tenure as China's envoy, with Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah describing him as instrumental in bolstering Sino-Guinean relations. Guinea is home to the
Simandou iron ore mine, where Chinese companies have made massive investments.
Similarly, Chinese ambassador to
Burkina Faso Lu Shan announced earlier this month that his tenure was concluding. After the nation's 2022 coup strained Western ties, it deepened relations with China, establishing a 'strategic partnership' in 2024.
Chinese ambassador to Senegal Li Zhigang (left) presents his credentials to Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, president of the Republic of Senegal, in May. Photo: Handout
Meanwhile, ceremonies have been held to bid farewell to Chen Zhihong, the Chinese ambassador to Mali, and Jiang Feng, Beijing's envoy to Niger. Both started their posts in 2021.
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