The President discussed cooperation for the development of mineral resources such as petroleum and infrastructure construction with his Gabonese counterpart, Ali Bongo Ondimba, during their summit on October 25.

The President stressed the importance of Korean-Gabon relations and diplomacy between Asia and Africa, mentioning President Ondimba’s two previous visits, as well as the four visits paid by his father and president, Omar Bongo Ondimba. The President also stressed that Gabon has been an important diplomatic partner since the two countries first forged diplomatic ties in 1962. Ondimba expressed his satisfaction with the close relationship with Korea and said that he hopes to develop the relationship further.

The President (right) and President of the Gabonese Republic, Ali Bongo Ondimba, signing an MOU on October 25.

The President remarked on the signing of a memorandum of understanding for oil and mineral resource development between the two governments, and said he hopes for active participation in oil development in Gabon by the Korea National Oil Corp. and other South Korean companies.]

Ondimba said his country is fully open to investment by Korean firms, not only in the energy sector, but also in airport and infrastructure construction, and in information technology and agriculture.

He also added that his country is open to learning more of the experiences and techniques that Korea has used in successfully overcoming financial difficulty and development setbacks, and hopes both countries can share their experiences for mutual benefit.

The two nations signed a several deals to boost energy cooperation and cultural exchanges.
Ondimba’s official three-day visit to Korea helped to strengthen relations in a broad spectrum of areas, such as the energy sector, natural resources development, and infrastructure construction.