President of the Republic of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has commended Ghana for its democratic leadership and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation, describing the relationship between the two nations as one founded on friendship, mutual respect and shared aspirations for development.
Speaking at an official state dinner hosted in his honour by President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday evening, President Nguema said his visit to Ghana underscored the determination of both countries to deepen diplomatic engagement and strengthen cooperation across key sectors.
Opening his remarks, the Gabonese leader highlighted the symbolic significance of the attire he wore to the dinner, saying it reflected the rich natural heritage shared by Ghana and Gabon.
“It is a great honour to stand before you this evening wearing this green shirt adorned with golden patterns, symbolising the gold-rich regions of Ashanti in Ghana and Minkébé in Gabon,” he said.
President Nguema praised Ghana’s achievements and thanked President Mahama for the warm reception accorded to him and his delegation.
“We are proud of the example that Ghana continues to set, and I thank you for making this gathering possible,” he stated.
The Gabonese President also welcomed the successful outcome of bilateral engagements held earlier in the day, noting that both countries had signed important agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation.
“My delegation and I are pleased to be here, and earlier today we successfully signed important agreements that will strengthen cooperation between our two countries. I thank you sincerely for that achievement,” President Nguema said.
He described the state visit as a reflection of the shared commitment of Ghana and Gabon to deepen relations and promote collaboration on issues of mutual interest.
“Our visit to your beautiful country reflects our shared determination to strengthen the bilateral relations between Gabon and Ghana and to deepen our dialogue on issues of common interest within the framework of our cooperation,” he noted.
President Nguema expressed confidence that the longstanding friendship between the two nations would continue to grow, with expanded collaboration in trade, diplomacy and other strategic sectors.
“It is my sincere desire that Gabon and Ghana continue to strengthen their friendship and expand cooperation across many sectors, including trade, diplomacy and other areas of mutual interest, for the benefit of our two peoples,” he said.
Expressing appreciation for the hospitality extended to him during the visit, the Gabonese leader thanked President Mahama and the people of Ghana for their warm reception.
“Permit me once again to express my profound gratitude for your warm hospitality and for the kind invitation extended to me to visit Ghana,” he said.
President Nguema concluded his remarks by inviting guests to raise a toast to the enduring friendship between the two countries and to the continued prosperity of their peoples.
“I now invite everyone present to kindly rise and join me in a toast to the continued friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Gabon and the Republic of Ghana, to the good health of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, and to the peace, prosperity and progress of our two nations.”
President Nguema’s state visit is expected to further strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between Ghana and Gabon, following the signing of bilateral agreements and renewed commitments to cooperation in trade, investment and regional development.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
