Gabon and EU hold second strategic partnership dialogue: reforms, investments, climate in focus

Gabon and the European Union convened yesterday at the Palais des Congrès Omar Bongo Ondimba in the Cité de la Démocratie for the second session of their strategic partnership dialogue. Vice-President of the Government Hermann Immongault and EU Ambassador to Gabon Cécile Abadie co-chaired the meeting, building on the initial dialogue held in October 2024.

Hermann Immongault recalled that this dialogue operates under the Samoa Agreement, the key legal foundation for relations between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. He emphasised that the agreement calls for ‘a more balanced, more operational partnership, one that is more focused on the concrete impact of public policies and investments’.

During the working session, both sides addressed four main pillars: political reforms and governance, economic outlook, the environment and sustainable management of natural resources, and multilateral and regional cooperation.

At the close of the meeting, the partners commended the institutional reforms initiated during Gabon’s Transition period and exchanged views on human rights and fundamental freedoms. ‘No subject was off the table,’ Mr. Immongault stated, adding that the discussions helped to ‘clear up all grey areas’.

The talks also covered Gabon’s economic prospects, ongoing structural reforms, improvements in the business climate, and measures to attract more investment. The European Union’s Global Gateway strategy was also discussed.

Environmental issues held a prominent place in the exchanges. Both sides reaffirmed their shared perspective on sustainable forest management and examined avenues for cooperation in sustainable fisheries, energy, and waste management.

Finally, Gabon and the EU reiterated their commitment to multilateralism and noted broad alignment on regional and international challenges, particularly maritime security and regional integration.

The two parties now intend to deepen their relationship and continue consultations on jointly identified priorities, in an atmosphere described as open and trusting.