But the Western countries that link their partnership with the poorest countries with respect for democracy also have to consider that they have obligations towards these countries.

But the Western countries that link their partnership with the poorest countries with respect for democracy also have to consider that they have obligations towards these countries.

The African Union has to act in order to put an end to armed conflicts that undermine the continent, to fight against the devastation caused by AIDS and other contagious diseases, to promote sustainable development of its member states.

I'm not aiming for the Nobel Peace Prize!

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

I am in favor of complete freedom of information and of free access to the new communication tools, in particular the Internet.

The birth of the African Union should encourage us to reexamine relations between African States.