In recent diplomatic developments, Gabon and Angola are veering towards a thaw in relations after a period of strained ties late last year. The diplomatic rift, though not leading to a complete breakdown in relations, appeared to be on the brink of escalation. However, on Tuesday, April 23rd, a Gabonese delegation embarked on a visit to Angola in a bid to ease tensions.
The Gabonese Ambassador to Angola was part of the delegation, marking a significant step forward as he had been recalled to Libreville for consultations in December and had not resumed his duties since then.
The diplomatic crisis arose when President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon faced obstacles in conducting an official visit to Luanda, Angola, despite having visited the other nine capitals of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) following the coup d’état on August 30th that brought him to power. Additionally, Gabon was displeased with Angola’s firm stance on maintaining ECCAS sanctions against Libreville.
Led by Jean François Ndongou, President of the Gabonese National Assembly, the delegation on Tuesday also included Jean Ping, known for his ties with Angolan diplomacy. Notably, during his tenure as President of the African Union Commission, Ping’s Chief of Staff was Antonio Tete, who now serves as Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Upon their arrival in Luanda, the delegation proceeded directly to the Presidential Palace, where they were received by Angolan President Joao Lourenço. Subsequently, the Gabonese Ambassador did not board the return flight to Libreville, signaling a positive outcome. “Everything went smoothly. The Gabonese Ambassador has resumed his duties,” stated a Gabonese source. An Angolan diplomatic source also hinted at the possibility of General Oligui Nguéma’s visit to Luanda, suggesting a potential thaw in relations between the two nations.
This diplomatic engagement underscores the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving tensions between neighboring nations. As both Gabon and Angola navigate through this delicate diplomatic phase, the visit represents a significant step towards fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in the region.