Fifty African experts (University Professors, Research Institute Directors, Think Tank Presidents, etc.) took part in the seminar on “Chinese-style Modernization and African Development,” held from July 17 to 24, 2024, in China’s Shaanxi Province. Upon returning to their respective countries, some agreed to respond to our “Three Questions to the Xi’an Seminar Participants.” Today, we speak with the representative from Gabon, Dr. Ygor-Juste Ndong-N’na.
Hello Dr. Ygor-Juste Ndong-N’na, you are the Gabonese representative at the Xi’an seminar on “Chinese-style Modernization and African Development.” Please introduce yourself and share your impressions following this major event focused on implementing the six key objectives and ten strategic actions of the China-Africa partnership. I am Ndong-N’na Ygor-Juste, Head of Service at the Directorate of Cooperation at Omar Bongo University in Libreville, Gabon. I had a wonderful experience during the seminar on “Chinese-style Modernization and African Development” held in Shaanxi Province, specifically in the cities of Yangling and Xi’an. I was deeply impressed by the strong cultural roots of the population and the Chinese government’s efforts to preserve this heritage, which defines its identity, pride, and wealth. We witnessed that the Chinese people believe in their values and potential and constantly strive to go beyond their achievements. This mindset has enabled them to reach a level of development often described as miraculous. The lectures and field visits were not intended to position China as a teacher, but rather to inspire, share its experience transparently, and strengthen Sino-African cooperation for Africa’s development. This seminar opened the door to countless opportunities for exchange toward a community with a shared future. As for Omar Bongo University, we are considering signing a partnership agreement with the International Exchange Center of the Yangling Demonstration Zone.
What proposals do you have for Sino-African cooperation that is closer to the people, from the perspective of Gabon? In practical terms, we know that universities are the laboratories where national development is conceived. During exchanges, Chinese experts could train Gabonese experts to align with new scientific advancements. This would also allow Chinese experts to access Africa’s natural potential to advance science.
What do you think of the Xi’an Reflection Group’s initiative to follow up on the seminar? I believe this initiative is commendable, as it will serve as a support point for implementing FOCAC, which is dear to our leaders and peoples. It’s worth noting that the African representatives in the Reflection Group come from diverse fields, which will help diversify proposals and enrich cooperation.
Interview by Héribert-Label Élisée ADJOVI / Special envoy to Xi'an