The Gabonese government has called for a return to the fundamental principles of international law and a reformed multilateralism, during the 81st United Nations General Assembly. The Assembly, which took place from September 22 to 28, was held under the theme "Restoring trust and managing transformation: a UN that delivers results for all". According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Gabon's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marie-Édith Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny, spoke on behalf of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.
In her address, Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny welcomed the re-election of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, expressing hope that his new term would be marked by "listening, dialogue, and the relentless pursuit of compromise in the service of international peace and cooperation". She noted that the world is facing numerous, profound, and interconnected crises, including prolonged armed conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions, persistent inequalities, climate change, and increasing humanitarian emergencies.
The Minister emphasized that in the face of these challenges, the only guiding value for the international community could be trust, which can be achieved through renewed respect for the UN Charter, the principle of non-interference, and state sovereignty. She also welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2797 (2025), which aims to revive the settlement of the Western Sahara dispute based on a plan of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.
Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny further called for enhanced security in the Gulf of Guinea, a region whose importance for international trade is growing daily. She urged the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2719, which concerns the financing of peacekeeping operations in Africa, a measure that, according to her, would help consolidate peace on the continent.
The Minister highlighted the leadership of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and the orientations of Gabon's National Growth and Development Plan (PNCD) 2026-2030. She advocated for a renewed international partnership that would promote the local transformation of Gabon's natural resources, economic diversification, and technology transfer. Additionally, she requested greater financial recognition for Gabon's contribution to global climate regulation.
Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny also addressed the issue of digital transformation, warning against the risks of privacy breaches, disinformation, and cybercrime. She expressed concern about the lack of an effective international legal framework to address these threats. Furthermore, she welcomed the adoption of General Assembly Resolution 80/250 on the transatlantic slave trade, describing it as a "grave crime against humanity".
In conclusion, the Minister reaffirmed that legitimate global governance cannot exist without Africa's equitable participation in decisions affecting international peace and security. She reiterated Gabon's support for Cuba and emphasized the need for a more inclusive and reformed multilateralism. Key points from the address include the need for a return to fundamental principles of international law, enhanced security in the Gulf of Guinea, and a renewed international partnership to promote Gabon's economic development.
Key points
- Gabon calls for reformed multilateralism at UN General Assembly
- Enhanced security in Gulf of Guinea urged
- Renewed international partnership for Gabon's development advocated
