Haskel Represents Israel at Gabon Inauguration, Enhances Africa Relations

In a strong gesture of diplomatic outreach, Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel traveled to Libreville over the weekend to attend the inauguration of Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. Her presence underscored Israel’s growing commitment to strengthening ties with African nations across multiple spheres.

While in Gabon’s capital, Haskel met with top-ranking officials including the vice president, prime minister, and ministers of foreign affairs, justice, and economic development. She also held a dialogue with the deputy archbishop, continuing efforts to deepen ties with Africa’s influential Christian communities.

Haskel emphasized expanding bilateral cooperation in agriculture, health, technology, and economic development, as well as the urgent need to jointly combat terrorism and counter the destabilizing influence of Iran on the African continent.

“Israel’s relations with African countries are a strategic asset,” Haskel said. “They are an integral part of our effort to strengthen Israel’s standing internationally and to confront the challenges posed by Iran and terrorist organizations.”

She also delivered a clear diplomatic message: Israel is eager to work with African partners who stand with it in global arenas. “I came to President Nguema’s inauguration to express our commitment to deepening ties with Gabon,” she stated. “I was pleased to see that we have good partners here friends of Israel who want to stand with us in various arenas.”

Haskel used her time on the ground to encourage Gabon and other African nations to stand with Israel in international forums, particularly at the United Nations where support is often critical amid ongoing challenges on multiple fronts.

President Nguema, who previously met Haskel in Ghana, was extended a formal invitation to visit Israel a diplomatic milestone currently in the planning stages. His visit would mark a new chapter in Gabon-Israel relations, reinforcing the Jewish state’s strategy of building enduring partnerships across Africa.

As Israel continues to face existential threats and diplomatic hostility, its outreach to allies in Africa reflects not just strategic alignment but shared values and a common vision for development, security, and international cooperation.

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