The upcoming meeting between Gabon’s President Brice Oligui Nguema and his French counterpart in Paris centers on reviewing progress from the agreements signed in Libreville in November 2025 during Emmanuel Macron’s state visit, according to high-level diplomatic sources.

For months, Libreville has been pushing for local processing of manganese, its key mineral resource extracted by Comilog—a subsidiary of the French group Eramet. Authorities have set a firm deadline: by January 2029, all exported manganese must undergo initial processing within Gabon. While Paris supports the concept, negotiations are underway to ease the timeline, deemed too aggressive given the substantial investments needed in industrial and energy infrastructure. “This is precisely what brought the French President to Gabon,” emphasized a spokesperson for President Oligui Nguema late last week.

Libreville’s military base future dominates discussions

Another critical agenda item involves the water supply contract with Suez, signed a year ago. Despite commitments totaling 120 billion CFA francs, implementation has stalled. French officials insist on honoring the terms, while Gabon seeks adjustments to reflect current economic realities.

On the military front, Libreville is seeking a phased withdrawal of French troops. Key demands include transferring ownership of the Camp de Gaulle—formerly a French military base—to Gabonese authorities and renaming the facility. Moving forward, defense cooperation is expected to focus exclusively on training programs. Meanwhile, Gabon continues expanding partnerships with alternative allies such as China, Turkey, and India, though France remains its top diplomatic partner.

Gabon’s debt crisis looms large

Though not formally listed on this week’s agenda, Gabon’s escalating debt crisis is impossible to ignore. With obligations exceeding 70% of GDP, Libreville has launched a comprehensive audit, with findings expected by the end of July. Simultaneously, Gabon is negotiating a new program with the IMF, though insiders report delays in submitting required documentation.

France, which currently chairs the Paris Club—an international creditor group specializing in debt relief for struggling nations—is advocating for a structured financial solution. Regional stakeholders are watching closely, as Gabon’s debt burden threatens regional currency stability and raises concerns about potential CFA Franc devaluation.