Luanda: The President of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, defended on Wednesday in Luanda the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Angola, focusing on economic diversification, industrialization, and the promotion of African solutions to the continent's challenges. Speaking in a joint press conference with the President of Angola, Joo Louren§o, the Gabonese statesman said the visit allowed for "frank and constructive exchanges," which contributed to reinforce mutual trust and ties of friendship, which currently share a common vision of deepening bilateral cooperation.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the Gabonese president reaffirmed his country's commitment to African integration and the strengthening of continental organizations, having highlighted Angola's active role in this process and on the international stage. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema acknowledged Angola's experience in the oil sector and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in this area, as well as extending it to other strategic sectors.
The Gabonese president advocated for the diversification of African economies, focusing on the local transformation of natural resources, such as timber and minerals, in order to generate greater added value and job creation. He also highlighted the need for investment in the manufacturing industry, human capital development, sustainable management of natural resources, and strengthening transparency in economic governance.
Regarding the internal situation in Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema noted that national unity and the strengthening of democratic institutions are central priorities of his government. He explained that the political transition process was completed based on legality and compliance with international commitments, including the holding of presidential, legislative, and local elections, as well as constitutional review.
According to the Gabonese leader, these steps ensured the regular functioning of institutions and were carried out in accordance with democratic principle, having emphasized the importance of institutional stability and democratic consolidation in his country. Despite internal criticism and external sanctions, he said that Gabon has maintained its commitment to stability, democracy, and the rule of law, underlining that governance should be based on dialogue, inclusion, and respect for political diversity.
He also mentioned the importance of the separation of powers and the independence of the judicial system, and considered the autonomous functioning of institutions essential to guarantee citizens' rights. He concluded by reaffirming that his government's priorities include consolidating peace, strengthening national unity, and promoting the country's economic and social development.
He said the current global situation marked by crises and conflicts represents an additional challenge, but also an opportunity to accelerate reforms and strengthen partnerships. "The situation is complex, but we must maintain balance and continue working to ensure growth and stability," he said, highlighting the need to invest in sectors such as energy, digitalization, and infrastructure.
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema called for the peaceful resolution of conflicts in Africa, advocated for "African solutions to African problems," and encouraged initiatives that promote peace, dialogue, and unity on the continent. The Gabonese statesman is on a three-day state visit to Angola, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations of friendship and cooperation.
