Following his official visit to Antananarivo, where he represented the President of the Republic at Madagascar’s 66th independence anniversary celebrations, Vice-President of the Government, Hermann Immongault, held a significant meeting with Gabonese nationals residing in the Big Island. This direct engagement provided an opportunity to discuss the daily concerns of the Gabonese community and to reaffirm the Libreville authorities’ dedication to maintaining continuous dialogue with the diaspora.
During the discussions, representatives of the Gabonese diaspora in Antananarivo articulated several challenges faced by their compatriots living in Madagascar. Among the primary issues raised were the persistent absence of a permanent consular representation, which complicates numerous administrative procedures, and specific concerns affecting Gabonese students. These included the monitoring of scholarship grants, the official recognition of university degrees, and the enhancement of academic exchange programs. Community members also advocated for a deeper development of economic relations between Gabon and Madagascar, aiming to foster entrepreneurial initiatives and cross-border investments.
Strengthening bilateral cooperation
Responding to these pressing issues, Hermann Immongault provided assurances that all expressed grievances would be thoroughly examined by the relevant authorities. He highlighted the imperative of deepening interactions between Libreville and Antananarivo, particularly concerning visa regulations, scholarships managed by the National Scholarship Agency of Gabon (ANBG), and comprehensive support for students. The Vice-President of the Government underscored the strong desire to forge a closer relationship with Madagascar, aligning with the shared vision of both nations’ heads of state.
Addressing business operators, Hermann Immongault encouraged Malagasy entrepreneurs to capitalize on the promising opportunities available in Gabon, especially within the agri-food and energy sectors. He confirmed that institutional and economic exchanges between the two countries are set to increase significantly in the coming months. This meeting with the diaspora is part of a broader strategy to maintain close ties with Gabonese citizens abroad, demonstrating the authorities’ commitment to leveraging cooperation between Libreville and Antananarivo as a powerful catalyst for development, benefiting the populations and economic stakeholders of both nations.
