The Camp De Gaulle is no longer a French base. This bold declaration came from Fabrice Mauriès, France’s Ambassador to Gabon, during his speech at the French National Day celebrations in Libreville on July 14. The diplomat confirmed the imminent completion of the site’s transformation, marking a pivotal shift in Franco-Gabonese military cooperation.
Speaking on the evolution of defense ties between the two nations, Mauriès emphasized that Gabon and France have been working together in a co-constructed adaptation process, now reaching its final phase. This transition reflects a shared ambition to modernize their defense partnership and align it with contemporary security challenges.
Mauriès highlighted the enduring strength of the bilateral relationship, rooted in political, security, and military cooperation as well as deep camaraderie between the armed forces of both nations. Since the transition, the Inter-Armed Forces Liaison Detachment in Gabon (DLI-G) has taken charge of operational cooperation, while regional training institutions continue their educational missions.
The Ambassador outlined a significant transformation in France’s military footprint in Gabon. “Within weeks, this partnership will reach a balanced, clarified, and stabilized stage,” he stated. The Camp De Gaulle will cease to be a French base and, under a new designation, will finalize its evolution into a redefined facility.
Beyond military matters, Mauriès underscored progress in broader security and justice initiatives. He noted ongoing collaboration with Gabon’s Justice Minister to establish a National Financial Prosecutor’s Office, alongside efforts to combat drug trafficking, irregular migration, border surveillance, and enhance the capacities of police, gendarmerie, firefighters, and penitentiary services.
This strategic recalibration follows the political changes in Gabon in August 2023. The shift from the French Elements in Gabon (EFG) to the DLI-G reflects a refocused mission centered on training, advisory roles, and operational cooperation. The Ambassador’s announcement signals a definitive phase in this restructuring, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to a resilient and adaptive partnership suited to the evolving security landscape of Central Africa.
