The Gabon-European Union partnership dialogue session was held in Libreville, co-chaired by Hermann Immongault, vice-president of the Gabonese government, and Cécile Abadie, the EU ambassador to Gabon. Discussions focused on political reforms, economic prospects, the environment, and regional and multilateral issues. A key highlight was the EU’s call for a partnership built on stronger consultation, investment, and multilateralism.
Co-chaired by Hermann Immongault and Cécile Abadie, the meeting brought together several government officials and ambassadors from EU member states accredited to Gabon. Topics included the country’s economic situation, the business climate, the Global Gateway strategy, forestry cooperation, sustainable fishing, maritime security, and regional and international matters.
In her speech, the EU ambassador stressed the need to adapt Africa-Europe relations to an increasingly competitive global environment. “The world today is marked by more transactional relationships and sometimes aggressive rivalries. We must adapt our cooperation tools to this context,” she said. Cécile Abadie also advocated for a partnership based on “mutual interests,” while reaffirming the EU’s commitment to peace, security, good governance, and respect for human rights.
Referring to Gabon’s new political phase after the transition, the European diplomat called for long-term cooperation. “This dialogue is an opportunity to ensure mutual understanding, outline a roadmap with shared goals, and energize our way of working,” she emphasised. She also urged more consultation, data exchange, and joint analysis to build a common vision for future priorities.
This dialogue comes amid strengthened Gabon-EU ties following the Gabonese president’s visit to Brussels in November 2024 and his participation in the 2025 EU–African Union summit.
Discussions also covered several international crises, including the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and security challenges across Africa. At the conclusion, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue exchanges on jointly identified priorities and to establish operational follow-up for cooperation projects.
