MALABO — Equatorial Guinea has threatened possible diplomatic measures against France, including the expulsion of French diplomats and a potential rupture in relations, amid a dispute over a diplomatic property in Paris, Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue said.
In a statement, Obiang Mangue condemned what he described as the “illegal” sale and auction of a property owned by Equatorial Guinea at 40-42 Avenue Foch in Paris, a building at the center of a long-running legal dispute between the two countries.
The vice president said the move violated principles governing relations between sovereign states and warned that Malabo could respond with what he called “proportional measures” if the issue is not resolved.
“We reserve the right to take reciprocal actions, including measures affecting the French diplomatic presence in Equatorial Guinea,” he said.
The dispute stems from corruption investigations conducted by French authorities involving assets linked to Equatorial Guinea’s ruling elite. French courts previously ruled that the property could not be protected by diplomatic immunity under the circumstances of the case, a position strongly rejected by Malabo.
Equatorial Guinea argues that the building is state property and enjoys diplomatic protection under international law. The government has repeatedly accused France of violating its sovereignty through legal actions targeting the property.
France has not immediately responded to the latest remarks.
The escalating dispute comes at a time when relations between France and several African countries have faced growing strains, with some governments reassessing diplomatic, military and political ties with the former colonial power.
Analysts say a complete breakdown in relations between Paris and Malabo would mark a significant escalation in a dispute that has persisted for more than a decade.
Further developments are expected as both sides weigh their next steps.
