Chad clears CEEAC financial arrears in show of regional commitment

On Monday, July 13, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno welcomed a high-level delegation from the Economic Community of Central African States (CEEAC), led by Rosario Mbasogo Kung, the organization’s current Council of Ministers Chairperson.

The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce the newly appointed CEEAC Commission leadership, including Ambassador Ezéchiel Nibigira as President and Ambassador Mariam Mahamat Nour as Vice-President.

A major highlight of the discussions was President Déby’s pledge to settle Chad’s outstanding financial obligations to the Community. The Chadian leader directed his cabinet to clear all pending contributions owed to the CEEAC’s budget.

In a formal statement, he instructed government officials to “resolve Chad’s arrears in contributions to the Community and ensure strict compliance with the country’s financial commitments,” reaffirming N’Djamena’s full dedication to the organization’s operational success.

The Chadian head of state also underscored his country’s unwavering support for CEEAC, praising the organization’s role in facilitating transitions in Chad and Gabon that restored constitutional order. He emphasized Chad’s continued political, economic, and financial backing for the regional body.

CEEAC officials outlined their strategic priorities and key challenges, emphasizing their goal to accelerate economic integration in Central Africa. Their vision includes boosting intra-regional trade, improving transport infrastructure, facilitating free movement of people and goods, and strengthening the free trade zone.

Rosario Mbasogo Kung welcomed President Déby’s assurances, noting after the meeting that CEEAC’s success hinges equally on institutional action and member states’ commitment to transforming Central Africa into a region of peace, integration, prosperity, and solidarity.