In spite of our poverty and our economic dependence, we do not have to give in, neither because we are sometimes abandoned nor because of the wish of some nations to impose their economic or political models.

But since independence, Gabon is one of the few countries in Central Africa that enjoys peace and stability.

Economic sanctions rarely achieve the desired results.

When they favor the access of other people to education and health care, the countries of the North not only demonstrate generosity or solidarity, but also implement the principles of respecting and promoting human rights.

For about ten years now, the struggle for democracy and the respect of human rights has been in the focus point - if not a commodity - of political groups aiming to rise to power.

Globalization, far from putting an end to power diplomacy between States, has, on the contrary, intensified it.

Certainly, Africa accounts for only l % of world trade, and we cannot assure our development on our own.