At the UN rostrum, in New York on Saturday 26^th September, the Gabonese head of state first deplored the “mixed” record at the global level of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG): “Despite the ensuing mobilisation, we have to admit a mixed record on the global level. The progress made is unequal, in particular in Africa and in the less advanced countries. The incompatibility with the structural and economic realities of our countries as well as the proposed financing mechanisms did not provide a favourable environment to reach some of these goals” he declared.

He nevertheless reminded that, in this framework, Gabon has had positive results: “In terms of education, the gross enrolment ratio was over 96% and one of the highest in sub-Saharan African. The parity between boys and girls for primary and secondary education is a given." Mentioning "remarkable progress" in the reduction of maternal and infantile mortality, he stressed that his country now has a universal health care system and access to basic welfare benefits aimed at those most vulnerable.

The head of state also talked about his development programme for agriculture GRAINE, which goal is to develop about 200,000 ha and create 20,000 jobs, as well as the measures taken by his government to fight against corruption and misappropriation of public funds.