During the French National Day celebrations at the French embassy in Libreville, Fabrice Mauriès, the extraordinary and plenipotentiary Ambassador to Gabon, revealed plans for a state visit by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to Paris in the coming days. The diplomat described this visit as the highest level of protocol and a landmark step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
Addressing Gabonese officials, the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the French community, Fabrice Mauriès confirmed, « in a few days, His Excellency the President of the Gabonese Republic, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, will travel to Paris for a state visit—the highest level of protocol—which will mark a decisive milestone in reinforcing our relationship. »
The ambassador emphasized that this initiative builds on ongoing exchanges since 2023, highlighting the Gabonese head of state’s official visit to Paris in spring 2024 and the reciprocal visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Libreville. « This partnership, whose scope continues to expand, is constantly being redefined, » he noted, asserting that these high-level meetings signal a fresh phase in Franco-Gabonese cooperation.
Reaffirming France’s stance on Gabon’s transitional period, Philippe Mauriès stated, « France was not involved in the process, as it is solely up to the Gabonese people to shape the nation’s future. » He added, « France has never stepped back; it remains and will continue to be a reliable, steadfast, and committed partner, determined to assist Gabon in building a new collective future. »
The diplomat also announced that the upcoming visit will solidify a fresh economic vision for the two countries. « We will forge a mutually beneficial, win-win partnership, as envisioned by the Gabonese President and confirmed by President Macron. » He further noted that « several new projects aligned with this vision will be unveiled in Paris in the coming days. »
Since the regime change in August 2023, Gabon and France have progressively reshaped their bilateral relations. The reciprocal visits by Presidents Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and Emmanuel Macron have paved the way for a new cycle of political, economic, and security cooperation. The Gabonese head of state’s state visit to Paris is expected to mark another significant milestone in this rapprochement, with the introduction of strategic initiatives aimed at deepening the partnership between the two nations.
