Cameroonian President Paul Biya Faces Health Scare in Beijing Amid FOCAC Summit

The summit is centered on the theme: "Working Together to Promote Modernization and Build a High-Level Community with a Shared Future for China and Africa."

Biya arrived in Beijing at around 11 a.m. on Wednesday and was greeted by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Shortly after this diplomatic engagement, the Cameroonian leader reportedly felt unwell, with the episode quickly attributed to fatigue by medical staff. Observers at the scene noted that the president appeared physically drained upon his arrival.

Sources within the Cameroonian delegation confirmed that Biya's health issue stemmed from exhaustion, exacerbated by an unusually busy schedule in recent weeks, which had included significant diplomatic and political engagements. "His body has been under a lot of strain," a delegation member stated.

The president had already delayed his departure from Cameroon, opting to rest before making the long flight to China. On Sunday, preparations for his trip were abruptly put on hold when Biya decided to postpone his departure by a day to recuperate.

Following the minor health scare, the president is expected to take Thursday to rest and recover. However, he is still slated to attend the 8th China-Africa Business Conference on Friday.

Diplomatic sources indicate that Biya’s recent flurry of international activity may be driven by more than just participation in global events. Concerns have been raised by international financial institutions and foreign governments about his ability to continue managing state affairs. His participation in high-profile summits like FOCAC is seen as an attempt to reassure Cameroon’s financial backers and secure much-needed funding amidst a challenging economic climate.