On October 27, 2026, at the Palais Rénovation in Libreville, Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema welcomed six new ambassadors, who presented their letters of credence. This diplomatic ceremony followed established protocols, as reported by the Gabonese Presidency. The ambassadors represent Nigeria, Lebanon, Equatorial Guinea, Algeria, the Czech Republic, and Norway. They were received in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The first group of ambassadors, resident in Libreville, included Joseph John Gargadi from Nigeria, Mazen Kabbara from Lebanon, Bienvenido Esono Engonga Okomo from Equatorial Guinea, and Hamza Hadj Cherif from Algeria. They were followed by non-resident ambassadors based in Kinshasa: Petr Selepa from the Czech Republic and Bjørn Klouman Bekken from Norway. President Oligui Nguema engaged in bilateral discussions with each ambassador.
The talks with Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea focused on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, energy cooperation, trade expansion, and free movement of people and goods. These discussions highlight the importance of regional collaboration in addressing shared challenges. Strengthening economic ties was also a key topic.
With Lebanon and Algeria, the discussions centered on promoting direct investments, infrastructure development, hydrocarbon exploration, industrialization, and vocational training. These areas of cooperation are expected to boost economic growth and create new opportunities. The President emphasized Gabon's commitment to fostering strong partnerships.
Norway's ambassador expressed interest in collaborating on environmental conservation, sustainable resource management, blue economy, and transitioning to clean energy. The Czech Republic's ambassador highlighted potential areas of cooperation, including technology transfer, industry, healthcare, defense, security, and agro-industry. These partnerships aim to drive development and modernization.
The new ambassadors praised Gabon's ongoing reforms and development efforts, reaffirming their countries' commitment to supporting the nation's transformation. President Oligui Nguema emphasized Gabon's dedication to pragmatic and diversified diplomacy, focusing on South-South cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships.
The reception of these new ambassadors underscores Gabon's engagement with the international community and its efforts to strengthen diplomatic relationships. The President looks forward to deepening cooperation with these nations, aligning with Gabon's national interests. This development is expected to yield positive outcomes for the country's growth and development.
Key points
- Strengthening diplomatic ties with six new ambassadors from Nigeria, Lebanon, Equatorial Guinea, Algeria, Czech Republic, and Norway.
- President Oligui Nguema emphasizes Gabon's commitment to pragmatic and diversified diplomacy.
- New partnerships to focus on areas such as energy cooperation, maritime security, and sustainable development.
