Military cooperation between France and Gabon reaches final phase

The once-French military base at Camp De Gaulle is no more. This was the unequivocal message delivered by France’s Ambassador to Gabon, Fabrice Mauriès, during his address at the French National Day celebrations in Libreville. The diplomat underscored that the transformation of the site, a long-standing emblem of Franco-Gabonese defense ties, has entered its final stages, aligning with the two nations’ shared vision for modernizing their military partnership.

Mauriès emphasized that the evolution of defense cooperation between Gabon and France is the result of a jointly crafted adaptation process now nearing completion. This overhaul reflects a mutual commitment to strengthen and redefine the bilateral defense relationship, ensuring it aligns with today’s security imperatives in Central Africa.

Highlighting the depth of the relationship, the Ambassador noted that political, security, and military cooperation remains a cornerstone of the Franco-Gabonese alliance, rooted in a bond forged by generations of shared military history. He pointed out that the Inter-Service Liaison Detachment in Gabon (DLI-G) now spearheads operational cooperation, while regional training institutions continue their educational missions, equipping Gabonese forces with modern skills.

Fabrice Mauriès went on to detail a pivotal shift in France’s military footprint in Gabon. “Within weeks, this collaboration will crystallize into a clear and stable framework,” he stated. “Camp De Gaulle, already stripped of its status as a French base, will complete its transformation under a new identity, marking a definitive phase in this strategic redefinition.”

Beyond military affairs, the Ambassador spotlighted broader security cooperation. He revealed ongoing efforts with Gabon’s Justice Minister to establish a National Financial Prosecutor’s Office, aimed at combating corruption and illicit financial flows. Other priorities include tackling drug trafficking, irregular migration, border surveillance, and bolstering the capacities of Gabon’s police, gendarmerie, fire services, and prison administration.

Since the regime change in August 2023, France and Gabon have recalibrated their military ties. This shift led to the replacement of the French Elements in Gabon (EFG) with the DLI-G, refocusing engagement on training, advisory roles, and operational cooperation. The announcement of Camp De Gaulle’s definitive transformation signals a milestone in this transition, reaffirming both nations’ determination to nurture a partnership that meets the evolving security needs of the region.