France and Gabon seek ‘new beginning’ in relations • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• France-Gabon Relations: Diplomatic, military, and economic ties.
• Sahel Region: Context of shifting French influence.
• Gabon Coup (2023): Overthrow of Ali Bongo, rise of Brice Oligui Nguema.
• Defense Pact: Renewed for 2 years.
• French Military Presence: Reduced from 1,200 to 100 troops.
• Gabon's Resources: Hydrocarbons, magnes, timber.
• French Development Agency: Involvement in infrastructure projects.
• Transgabon Railway: Rehabilitation project.

French President Macron's Visit to Gabon

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Gabon on Sunday to strengthen diplomatic, military, and economic relations. This visit occurs in a context where several Sahelian countries have recently reduced or severed ties with France. Gabon, however, has maintained its relationship, with the current president, Brice Oligui Nguema, welcoming Macron despite the 2023 coup that removed the previous head of state, Ali Bongo.

New Era of Cooperation

President Nguema expressed his view on the visit, stating, "Your presence reflects our shared desire for a new beginning to build cooperation based on trust, dialogue, and equality with a win-win vision." This sentiment highlights a desire for a renewed partnership between the two nations.

Defense and Military Presence

Following his election in April, President Nguema renewed a defense pact with France for a period of two years. France has significantly reduced its military presence in Gabon, from 1,200 troops in the 2000s to the current contingent of 100 soldiers. These remaining troops are engaged in training Gabonese forces.

Economic Interests and Resources

France is keen to secure its economic interests in Gabon, a country rich in natural resources. These include hydrocarbons, magnes (essential for fuel production), and timber.

Support for Gabon's Transition

President Macron acknowledged August 30th, 2023, as a "turning point in Gabon's political history." He stated, "And you have ushered in a new era based on renewal, inclusiveness, and plurality of opinion, values that our two countries deeply share." France has expressed its support for Gabon's ongoing transition, including assistance in infrastructure development.

Transgabon Railway Rehabilitation

The French Development Agency is actively involved in the rehabilitation of the Transgabon railway line. A renovation plan initiated in 2024 aims to replace 270 kilometers of sleepers and rails out of the total 648 kilometers by the year 2027.

Conclusion

President Macron's visit to Gabon signifies a strategic effort by France to maintain and adapt its relationships in Africa, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel. The renewed defense pact, reduced military footprint, and focus on economic cooperation, exemplified by the Transgabon railway project, underscore France's commitment to its partnership with Gabon under its new leadership. The emphasis on trust, dialogue, and equality suggests a move towards a more balanced and mutually beneficial relationship.