This marks a decisive turning point for regional integration in Central Africa. The opening of this technical dialogue in Libreville comes amid institutional renewal, highlighted by the arrival of a new team of Commissioners at the head of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). For H.E. Ms. Cécile Abadie, EU Ambassador, this meeting is an opportunity to breathe new life into a historic relationship. The entry into force of the Samoa Agreement has redefined the rules of engagement. While the technical phase of financial adjustment is now closed, the European Union now seeks to build a strategic partnership based on common goals rather than a simple donor-recipient relationship.

The core of this collaboration now rests on the Global Gateway initiative, the European tool dedicated to massive and structural investments. The priorities identified for this new chapter are particularly clear and cross-cutting. They first encompass the security aspect, with an emphasis on strengthening both land and maritime stability, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea. On the environmental front, the partnership focuses on fighting climate change and the essential protection of the Congo Basin's biodiversity. Finally, the economic dimension aims to accelerate regional integration and streamline intra-community trade—essential pillars of sustainable development for member states.

For his part, the President of the ECCAS Commission, H.E. Ambassador Ezéchiel Nigibira, welcomed the maturity of a partnership he describes as "traditional and strategic." While acknowledging a certain slowdown in exchanges in the past, he called for a lucid and ambitious review of bilateral relations. The stakes are high: ECCAS is preparing to adopt its Vision and Strategic Plan for 2026–2030. For the Commission President, it is imperative to align Central Africa's priorities with European financial instruments to ensure maximum efficiency on the ground. He particularly insisted on the principles of accountability, mutual trust, and institutional credibility.

One of the major announcements of this dialogue is the desire to establish a permanent monitoring mechanism. This system aims to prevent resolutions from remaining a dead letter and to ensure fluid coordination of future interventions. Over two days, experts from both delegations are working to identify new cooperation opportunities. This technical dialogue is not just a simple working meeting; it is the signal of ECCAS returning to the forefront of the diplomatic stage, supported by a European partner eager to stabilize and sustainably develop the heart of the African continent.

CK