Gabon’s president Brice Oligui Nguema begins state visit to France

Gabon’s Head of State, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has arrived in France for a three-day state visit, marking his second official trip to the country since assuming office. The visit underscores a commitment to deepen bilateral ties across critical sectors, including investment, infrastructure development, energy transition, industrialization, cultural exchanges, and economic collaboration.

The Gabonese delegation, comprising business leaders, government officials, and media representatives, is set to engage in high-level discussions with French counterparts. Central to the agenda is the strategic partnership between Libreville and Paris, with a focus on strengthening economic and geopolitical cooperation.

manganese transformation and industrial growth

One of the key topics on the agenda is Gabon’s ambition to halt the export of raw manganese—a mineral in which the country ranks among the world’s top producers—by 2029. The move aims to accelerate local processing, foster industrial development, and maximize value creation within Gabon’s economy. Discussions will explore ways to support this transition through French expertise and investment.

defense cooperation and military restructuring

Defense cooperation will also take center stage, with talks expected on the renewal of military partnerships between the two nations. A significant point of discussion is the future of the Camp De Gaulle military base in Libreville. Over the past years, France has downsized its military presence in Gabon, reducing troop numbers from approximately 1,200 to around 100. The visit provides an opportunity to redefine this relationship in line with evolving strategic priorities.

As Gabon seeks to assert its economic sovereignty and France looks to maintain influence in Central Africa, this state visit is poised to shape the trajectory of their long-standing alliance.