On September 26, 2026, Gabon's Foreign Minister, Marie-Édith Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny, represented the country's leader at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The assembly's theme, "Restoring trust, managing transformation, a United Nations in service to all," guided her address. She highlighted Gabon's diplomatic approach, which combines multilateralism with inclusivity, equity, and respect for state interests.
Minister Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny emphasized that restoring trust between nations requires adherence to the fundamental principles of international law and the UN Charter. She stressed the importance of non-interference in internal affairs, respect for sovereignty, and territorial integrity. These principles are cornerstones of Gabon's diplomatic stance, reflecting its commitment to a rules-based international order.
The minister also discussed several sensitive issues, including the Sahara Moroccan conflict. Gabon welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2797-2025, which aims to resolve the regional dispute based on Morocco's autonomy plan. Additionally, Gabon reiterated its support for Cuba, calling for the lifting of the US-led embargo. These positions demonstrate Gabon's active engagement in international affairs and its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
On security issues, Gabon, as a member of the African Union's Peace and Security Council, advocates for implementing Resolution 2719 on financing African peacekeeping operations. The country also emphasizes the need for enhanced security in the Gulf of Guinea, a strategic region crucial for shared prosperity. Minister Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny urged the international community to address the security challenges in this area.
In addition to its international engagements, Gabon is focused on national transformation. The minister referenced the country's National Development Plan (PNCD) 2026-2030, which aims to improve living conditions and promote sustainable development. Gabon seeks partnerships based on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and concrete commitments, focusing on local resource transformation, economic diversification, and technology transfer.
The country's digital policy was also addressed, with the minister affirming Gabon's goal of creating a secure and liberty-respecting ecosystem. This statement comes amid controversy surrounding the government's handling of social media. The minister's words suggest a desire to balance security concerns with the need to protect individual freedoms in the digital age.
Overall, Gabon's diplomatic stance, as articulated by Minister Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny, reflects a commitment to multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development. The country's engagement at the UN General Assembly demonstrates its active role in international affairs and its efforts to address global challenges.
Key points
- Gabon emphasizes the importance of non-interference in internal affairs and respect for sovereignty.
- The country advocates for enhanced security in the Gulf of Guinea.
- Gabon seeks partnerships based on mutual respect and shared responsibility to drive national development.
