Gabon’s transitional president sought assistance from his Ivory Coast counterpart on Thursday in lifting African Union sanctions, during a meeting held in Abidjan.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed power following a coup last August, engaged with Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara during a visit spanning from Thursday to Saturday, aimed at fostering “work and friendship” between the two nations.
Addressing the Ivorian president, General Nguema stated, “I am asking for the support of my elder here to plead in favor of lifting the African Union sanctions against Gabon, and I know I can count on you.”
Gabon faced suspension from the African Union on August 31 after Nguema ousted President Ali Bongo, whose family had held power for 55 years. Nguema pledged to transition the oil-rich central African country back to civilian rule after a two-year interim period.
The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), which had also suspended Gabon following the coup, reinstated the nation in March.
Thursday’s meeting followed Gabon’s recent launch of a national dialogue intended to pave the way for elections in 2025.
During a joint press statement, General Nguema informed Ouattara of the “progress of the current dialogue in Libreville” and expressed gratitude for Ouattara’s support throughout the transition process on Gabonese soil.
In response, Ouattara commended Nguema’s efforts to restore constitutional normality and convene an inclusive national dialogue.
As part of his visit, Gabon’s transitional president also intends to engage with the Gabonese diaspora through further discussions.
