COTONOU, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese company PowerChina has completed the rehabilitation of the esplanade of the Congress Palace in Cotonou, Benin's largest city, in less than three months, company officials told Xinhua on Sunday.
The project included paving works in the northern and southern sections of the esplanade, renovation of underground utility networks, and rehabilitation of access roads and parking areas, according to Qin Xuexi, project director of the rehabilitation works.
Construction began on Jan. 5 as part of preparations for the presidential inauguration, and the renovated site went on to host the inauguration ceremony of President Romuald Wadagni on May 24.
Qin said the project was executed in accordance with the highest construction standards, noting that "this demonstrates that behind 'Chinese speed' lies, above all, 'Chinese quality'."
Peng Pan, PowerChina's chief representative in Benin, said 26 Beninese companies participated in various phases of the project.
"This collaborative approach between Chinese teams and local partners has promoted experience sharing, strengthened technical capabilities, and advanced pragmatic cooperation between China and Benin," Peng said.
In less than three months, the esplanade was transformed from an aging public space into a modern venue capable of hosting the country's highest-level state ceremonies, he added.
"Beyond its technical significance, this achievement reflects PowerChina's contribution to the development of urban infrastructure in Benin and demonstrates the vitality of China-Benin cooperation in support of the country's development," Peng said.
The Congress Palace in Cotonou is a landmark of the friendship and cooperation between China and Benin. Built with the support of the Chinese government, the facility was inaugurated in 2003 and has since hosted major national conferences, government functions, and official events. ■