Readout of APNSA Jake Sullivan's Call with President of Gabon Ali Bongo Ondimba

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke by phone today with President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon. They discussed the close and enduring bond between the United States and Gabon, as well as a number of global and regional matters, to include cooperation during Gabon's current term on the United Nations Security Council. Mr. Sullivan reiterated appreciation for President Bongo's participation at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December 2022, including the meeting that President Biden hosted on the importance of free, fair, and transparent elections. Mr. Sullivan and President Bongo affirmed the importance of tackling security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea and Central Africa region. To that end, Mr. Sullivan announced Gabon's selection for the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program. Gabon will be paired with a State National Guard in the coming months and work jointly with the National Guard to tailor the program to its specific capability gaps and needs. Mr. Sullivan thanked President Bongo for his leadership on climate and conservation, including in our shared Atlantic Ocean region, and they pledged to deepen collaboration on these important issues.