MALABO — Equatorial Guinea and Gabon have signed an agreement to formally settle their decades-long territorial dispute over three small islands located in potentially oil- and gas-rich waters, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability.
The agreement follows a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which awarded sovereignty over the disputed islands to Equatorial Guinea after years of legal proceedings between the two Central African nations.
The islands, situated in the Gulf of Guinea, have long been at the center of competing territorial claims because of their strategic location and the area’s potential hydrocarbon reserves. The dispute had remained unresolved for decades despite several rounds of diplomatic negotiations.
Officials from both countries said the agreement reflects their commitment to respecting international law, implementing the ICJ’s judgment, and resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue rather than confrontation.
The settlement is also expected to strengthen cooperation between Malabo and Libreville in areas including maritime security, border management, environmental protection, and the exploration of offshore natural resources.
Analysts say the agreement removes a longstanding source of tension between the neighboring countries and could encourage greater investment in offshore oil and gas exploration while reinforcing confidence in international legal mechanisms for resolving territorial disputes.
The Gulf of Guinea remains one of Africa’s most strategically important maritime regions, serving as a major hub for energy production, commercial shipping, and regional trade.
