The Camp de Gaulle is no longer a French base. This bold declaration from Fabrice Mauriès, France’s ambassador to Gabon, echoed through his speech during the French National Day celebrations in Libreville on July 14. The diplomat confirmed the imminent conclusion of the site’s transformation—a move that symbolizes the recalibration of military cooperation between France and Gabon.
Addressing the evolution of Franco-Gabonese defense relations, Mauriès emphasized that both nations are engaged in a co-constructed adaptation process, now reaching its final phase. He highlighted that this shift aligns with their shared goal of modernizing defense ties between Paris and Libreville.
Mauriès underscored the enduring strength of cooperation in political, security, and military domains, calling it the cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. He pointed out that the Inter-Service Liaison Detachment in Gabon (DLI-G) now spearheads operational cooperation, while regional vocational schools continue their training missions undeterred.
The ambassador then revealed a critical shift in France’s military footprint in Gabon. “In the coming weeks, this partnership will crystallize into a clear and stable framework, with Camp de Gaulle already transitioning from a ‘French base’ to a rebranded entity completing its transformation,” he stated.
Beyond defense, Mauriès spotlighted deepening collaboration in internal security and justice. He noted ongoing efforts with Gabon’s Justice Minister to establish a national financial crimes unit. Other priorities include combating drug trafficking, irregular migration, border surveillance, and bolstering the capabilities of police, gendarmerie, firefighters, and prison authorities.
Since the regime change in August 2023, France and Gabon have been redefining their military cooperation. This restructuring saw the French Elements in Gabon (EFG) evolve into the DLI-G, now focused on training, advisory roles, and operational cooperation.
The definitive transformation of Camp de Gaulle marks another milestone in this reorganization, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to a strategic partnership tailored to the region’s evolving security needs.