On Monday, June 22, Gabon’s head of state, President Brice Oligui Nguema, received a special envoy from Mauritania. Messouda Bahama Mohamed Laghdaf, Mauritania’s minister of environment and sustainable development, brought an official message from President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani. The visit formally presented Mauritania’s candidacy for the position of secretary general of the International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF).

Spearheaded by Dr. Koumba Ba, this candidacy lays out a strategic project built on three core pillars: coherence, balance, and utility in direct service to member states. The meeting underscored the strong and fluid diplomatic ties between Libreville and Nouakchott. During the exchange, the special envoy reaffirmed Mauritania’s firm desire to deepen bilateral cooperation with Gabon, a relationship rooted in solidarity, mutual respect, and ongoing consultation on shared interests.

President Oligui Nguema reiterated his unwavering commitment to consensus and coordinated governance, principles that guide his political approach on the continental stage. Fully aligned with the president’s vision, this encounter marks another step in Gabon’s proactive diplomacy. It demonstrates the country’s drive to diversify its African partnerships while reaffirming its dedication to a useful, dynamic Francophonie focused on co-development.