Gabon and the European Union held their second strategic partnership dialogue yesterday at the Palais des Congrès Omar Bongo Ondimba in the Cité de la Démocratie. Co-chaired by Vice President of the Government Hermann Immongault and EU Ambassador to Gabon Cécile Abadie, the session built on the first dialogue conducted in October 2024.
Immongault noted that the dialogue is framed by the Samoa Agreement, the foundational legal instrument for EU-ACP relations. He emphasised that the accord calls for “a more balanced, more operational partnership focused on concrete impacts of public policies and investments.”
The working day covered four main pillars: political reforms and governance, economic outlook, environment and sustainable natural resource management, and multilateral and regional cooperation.
Both sides commended the institutional reforms undertaken during Gabon’s transition and exchanged views on human rights and fundamental freedoms. “No subject was taboo,” Immongault stated, adding that the discussions helped “clear all grey areas.”
Discussions also addressed Gabon’s economic perspectives, ongoing structural reforms, improvements to the business climate, and measures to attract greater investment. The EU’s Global Gateway strategy was also reviewed.
Environmental matters featured prominently, with both parties reaffirming their alignment on sustainable forest management and exploring cooperation possibilities in sustainable fisheries, energy, and waste management.
Finally, Gabon and the EU reiterated their commitment to multilateralism and noted broad convergence on regional and international issues, including maritime security and regional integration.
Both parties now aim to deepen ties and continue consultations on jointly identified priorities in an atmosphere described as open and trusting.
