State visit focuses on manganese processing, French influence and future relations between Libreville and Paris
Gabon’s President Brice Oligui Nguema has arrived in France for a state visit aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries while addressing key economic and political issues.
The visit follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s trip to Libreville last year and comes as Gabon seeks to redefine its relationship with its former colonial power.
One of the main issues on the agenda is Gabon’s demand that French mining company Eramet begin processing manganese locally before exporting the resource.
Gabon has set January 2029 as the deadline for all manganese extracted in the country to undergo local processing, a move aimed at increasing domestic value creation and creating more economic benefits for Gabon.
However, French authorities have requested additional time, citing the need to develop the infrastructure required to support local processing operations.
Mining reforms at centre of economic discussions
Manganese is one of Gabon’s most important natural resources, and the government has been pushing for greater control over how its minerals are processed and exported.
President Oligui Nguema’s administration has made economic reform a major priority since taking power following the 2023 military takeover that ended the long rule of former president Ali Bongo.
The Gabonese government believes local processing could help create jobs, boost industrial development and reduce dependence on exporting raw materials.
The talks with France are expected to determine how both sides can balance Gabon’s economic ambitions with the practical challenges facing mining companies.
France and Gabon discuss military presence
The leaders are also expected to discuss the future of French military involvement in Gabon.
France has maintained a long-standing military presence in the country, even after the 2023 coup that brought Oligui Nguema to power.
Discussions will reportedly include a possible reduction of French forces and negotiations over land ownership linked to a former French military base.
The talks reflect wider changes in France’s approach to Africa, as Paris attempts to build new partnerships and move away from the traditional influence associated with its colonial past.
Calls grow over jailed opposition leader
The visit also comes amid calls for French intervention in the case of Gabon’s former prime minister and opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze.
Bilie-By-Nze was arrested in April on allegations including fraud and breach of trust connected to events dating back to 2008.
His lawyers have rejected the accusations, describing them as politically motivated, and are urging France to help ensure his legal rights are protected.
The issue adds another sensitive dimension to discussions between Gabon and France during the state visit.
A changing relationship between Gabon and France
Since taking office, President Macron has sought to rebuild France’s partnerships across Africa by focusing on economic cooperation, environmental issues and youth involvement.
During his previous visit to Gabon, Macron said France wanted to establish a new relationship based on shared priorities rather than past colonial ties.
President Oligui Nguema’s visit comes at a crucial moment as Gabon seeks greater economic independence while France works to maintain strategic partnerships on the continent.
The outcome of the talks could shape the future of cooperation between the two nations in mining, security and development.
