Brussels, 10/06/2009 (Agence Europe) - It was with sadness that the European Commission learned of the death of the president of Gabon and elder statesman among African heads of state Omar Bongo Odimba. In a statement published on Tuesday 9 June, the day after official confirmation by the Gabonese authorities of his passing, the Commission sent “its condolences to the family of the deceased, and to his friends, the members of the government and bodies corporate, and to all the Gabonese people” and expressed the hope that Gabonese political life should continue peacefully, within the constitutional framework.
European Development and Humanitarian Aid Commissioner Louis Michel said: “President Omar Bongo led Gabon with determination over many years. He was also a major figure on the African political scene, listened to and respected by his peers, a man who gave a great deal to resolve crises and conflicts. In particular, he worked for stability and regional integration in Central Africa”.
The Commission notes that it had constructive relations with President Omar Bongo, whether on his visits to Brussels or at international meetings in Africa and elsewhere. It points out that in December 2007, President Bongo helped bring success to the 2nd EU-Africa summit in Lisbon, through his comments on issues related to energy, climate change and peace and security. (A.N./transl.rt)