Fortescue and Gabon discuss Belinga iron ore project development

The Gabonese government and the Australian mining group Fortescue have met in Libreville to discuss the advancement of the Belinga iron ore project. The meeting, led by Vice-President of the Government Hermann Immongault and Fortescue Executive Chairman Andrew Forrest, included a delegation of over forty international partners from countries including Switzerland, Belgium, China, the United States, and Australia.

Fortescue has already invested more than 250 billion CFA francs into exploration, feasibility studies, and initial infrastructure. The integrated project aims to go beyond ore extraction, encompassing the construction of a heavy-duty railway line, a deep-water port, and structural energy solutions.

During the discussions, the Gabonese government emphasized the need for a partnership that balances international industrial capacity with national strategic interests and long-term state control. Officials stated the goal is to build an economic partnership that is robust, legally clear, and politically sustainable, ensuring the project aligns with national priorities for economic transformation and sustainable development.