Gabon Seeks Enhanced Economic Ties with Angola in Key Sectors

Luanda: Gabon's ambassador to Angola, Edwige Koumby Missambo, has called for closer economic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in defence, security, training, and hydrocarbons, to promote shared development. According to Angola Press News Agency, in an interview marking the 66th anniversary of Gabon's Independence, celebrated on 17 August, the diplomat expressed her country's interest in strengthening trade relations in the agri-food sector, processed timber, manufactured goods, the blue economy, services, and industrial equipment. The ambassador noted that trade between Angola and Gabon reached 3.5 million US dollars in 2024, which she described as far below the potential of the two nations. The ambassador emphasized that trade between Angola and Gabon remains well below their potential but highlighted encouraging prospects for cooperation in the short and medium term. The main challenge identified is translating agreements and political commitments into concrete projects and substantial investments. As part of efforts to strengthen cooperation, Edwige Koumby Missambo highlighted the contacts established in Luanda last May during the state visit of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, at the invitation of his Angolan counterpart, Joo Lourenço. These discussions are ongoing and are expected to lead to concrete projects. Preparations are underway for the next Angola-Gabon Joint Cooperation Commission in Luanda, which aims to review cooperation and define new prospects for both peoples. The ambassador also emphasized that Angola and Gabon maintain a relationship of friendship and solidarity, gradually evolving into a strategic and pragmatic partnership. Regarding Gabon's domestic situation, she highlighted ongoing institutional reforms, economic diversification, and local processing of raw materials. Job creation, public welfare, improved public services, and infrastructure development were identified as some of the country's main challenges.