During a pivotal visit to France, Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema will prioritize reviewing joint agreements established in Libreville last November 2025 alongside French officials. The discussions aim to strengthen bilateral ties and address pressing economic and security concerns.

A major focus will be Gabon’s push for local processing of its manganese reserves, currently exported raw by Comilog, a subsidiary of the French group Eramet. Authorities in Libreville have set a firm deadline: by January 2029, all manganese must undergo initial processing within Gabon before export. While France supports the concept, negotiations are underway to adjust the timeline, citing challenges in securing infrastructure and energy investments. “This visit underscores the urgency of these talks,” noted a presidential spokesperson late last week.

military cooperation and base realignment under scrutiny

The future of Gabon’s military cooperation with France will also top the agenda. Libreville is pushing for greater disengagement, including the transfer of ownership of the Camp de Gaulle—a former French military base—along with its renaming. Over time, defense ties may transition to focused training programs. Gabon’s growing engagement with partners like China, Turkey, and India reflects its strategy to diversify alliances while maintaining France as its primary diplomatic ally.

Water supply agreements also require attention. A contract signed with Suez a year ago for Libreville’s potable water supply has faced repeated delays, with an estimated 120 billion CFA francs in commitments still pending. French officials have urged adherence to the agreement’s terms.

Gabon’s debt crisis and IMF negotiations

Unaddressed but critical to the talks is Gabon’s escalating debt, which now exceeds 70% of its GDP. Libreville has launched a comprehensive audit, with findings expected in July. Simultaneously, Gabon is pursuing a program with the IMF, though delays in document submissions have raised concerns. France, which leads the Paris Club, is advocating for a negotiated financial resolution to ease regional economic strain and mitigate risks to the CFA franc.