Equatorial Guinea and the Gabonese Republic Sign an Agreement on the Mbanié, Cocotiers, and Congas Islands

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today hosted today a signing ceremony in Morocco with President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea and President Bongo Ondimba of the Gabonese Republic. He congratulated the two presidents "for demonstrating true political leadership, courage and wisdom in reaching this mutually acceptable agreement, in accordance with the spirit and letter of the United Nations Charter,” Mr. Ban said in his opening remarks at the signing ceremony for an agreement that marked the successful conclusion of a UN mediation, which started in 2008, aimed at finding a mutually acceptable solution of the border dispute between the two countries for submission to the International Court of Justice.

Mr. Ban also thanked the leaders for coming to a mutually acceptable solution as well as for trust in the UN.

Recalling the tireless efforts of the two countries, Secretary-General Ban expressed hope that the peaceful resolution of the dispute will be a source of inspiration for countries around the world facing similar challenges. “The UN and the international community stand proud of your accomplishment,” he said.

The agreement resolves a longstanding dispute between the two countries regarding the Mbanié, Cocotiers and Congas islands, and common boundaries and which dated back to the early 1970’s.

(Adapted from a UN Press Release)