On May 23, 2008, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui met with Gabonese Ambassador to China Emmanuel Mba Allo, and accepted a relief donation of 500, 000 U.S. dollars from the Gabonese government. Mba Allo conveyed the profound condolences and sympathy from the Gabonese government to the Chinese government and people, saying that the Gabonese people are ready to share weal and woe with the Chinese people.

Zhang, on behalf of the Chinese government, thanked for the sincere sympathy and generous donation from the Gabonese side, adding that after the Wenchuan earthquake occurred, the Gabonese government and people offered great sympathy and support to China. A friend in need is a friend indeed. China cherishes the traditional friendship with Gabon and is ready to work with it to push forward bilateral ties, added Zhang.