Gabon’s president oligui nguema set for pivotal state visit to Paris

French Ambassador Fabrice Mauriès recently declared that Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is scheduled for an imminent state visit to Paris. Speaking at the French Embassy in Libreville during Bastille Day celebrations on July 14th, Ambassador Mauriès characterized this upcoming event as the « highest possible protocol level » and a « pivotal moment » for bolstering the bond between France and Gabon.

Addressing Gabonese officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the French community, Mauriès reiterated his confirmation: « In a few days, His Excellency the President of the Gabonese Republic, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, will travel to Paris for a state visit. This represents the highest echelon of diplomatic protocol and signifies a crucial stride in fortifying our bilateral relationship. »

The ambassador emphasized that this burgeoning momentum builds upon ongoing dialogues initiated in 2023. He recalled President Oligui Nguema’s official trip to Paris in spring 2024, followed by President Emmanuel Macron’s subsequent visit to Libreville. Mauriès asserted, « This partnership, continuously expanding in scope, is in a perpetual state of redefinition, » suggesting these high-level engagements are charting a fresh course for Franco-Gabonese cooperation.

Addressing Paris’s stance on Gabon’s political transition, Ambassador Mauriès clarified that « France was not involved, as it is solely up to the Gabonese people to determine their nation’s fundamental direction. » He affirmed, however, that « France has never withdrawn its support; it remains, and will continue to be, a trustworthy, steadfast, committed, and resolute partner dedicated to assisting Gabonese citizens in forging this new collective future. »

The diplomat further revealed that this high-profile visit aims to materialize a fresh perspective on economic relations between France and Gabon. « We are committed to building a mutually beneficial, win-win partnership, a vision ardently desired by the Gabonese President, and one which President Macron has confirmed aligns with our own, » Mauriès stated. He added that « new projects embodying this shared vision will be unveiled in Paris within the coming days. »

Since the governmental shift in August 2023, Gabon and France have been systematically re-evaluating and reshaping their bilateral ties. Reciprocal visits by Presidents Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and Emmanuel Macron have inaugurated a renewed era of political, economic, and security cooperation. The impending state visit of the Gabonese head of state to Paris is poised to signify another critical juncture in this strengthening rapprochement, with expectations of several strategic projects being announced to further cement the Gabon France partnership.