Xi Jinping felicitates Guinea’s junta leader on presidential poll victory

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a message of congratulations to Guinea’s military leader, Mamady Doumbouya, following his victory in the country’s recent presidential election, Chinese state media reported on Monday.

The message came a day after Guinea’s Supreme Court confirmed Doumbouya’s overwhelming win in the December 28 election, in which he secured 86.72 per cent of the votes cast.

The poll was held without the participation of several prominent opposition figures.

According to the state-run Xinhua News Agency, Xi conveyed his congratulations on Sunday, reaffirming the long-standing ties between China and Guinea.

The Chinese leader was quoted as saying that Beijing and Conakry have maintained a relationship built on “mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit” over the years.

Xi further expressed his readiness to deepen cooperation with Doumbouya, noting that he places high importance on the development of China–Guinea relations and is willing to work together to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Guinea, a West African nation of over 14 million people, has been under military rule since Doumbouya seized power in a 2021 coup.

Despite its economic challenges, the country is rich in natural resources, particularly mineral deposits.

It is one of the world’s leading producers of bauxite, a key raw material for aluminium production.

Official Chinese customs data show that 76 per cent of the bauxite and aluminium ore imports into China between January and November last year originated from Guinea.

Chinese firms are also heavily involved in Guinea’s flagship Simandou mining project, which is expected to position the country as a major global exporter of iron ore once fully operational.