Official speeches and statements - September 7, 2016

1. Gabon - Statement by M. Jean-Marc Ayrault, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development (Paris - September 5, 2016)

France continues to closely monitor developments in the Gabon situation. It calls for further efforts to calm things down and exercise of the remedies provided for under the constitution and the law.

Arrests have been made in the past few days. France is without news of several of its compatriots. In view of this, it expresses its deep concern and asks to be able to exercise the consular protection provided for under the Vienna Convention.

The African Union has said it is ready to assist the Gabonese parties in finding a way to swiftly resolve the post-election situation. France welcomes this initiative and fully supports it. It hopes that the heads-of-state mission, which is planning a visit to Libreville soon, will provide an opportunity to find a way to end the crisis. It encourages the Gabonese authorities to receive it as soon as possible.