- Tensions rose between Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea following the unannounced expulsion of several Cameroonian nationals on April 21, prompting the Cameroonian government to summon Equatorial Guinea’s ambassador for an official protest.
Cameroon’s Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, summoned Ambassador Armando Kote Echuaca to express the government’s “strong disapproval” over what it called repeated violations of regional agreements. The expulsions reportedly occurred without prior notification to Cameroon’s embassy in Malabo or its consulate general in Bata.
During the meeting, Mbella Mbella denounced the expulsions as a “flagrant violation” of CEMAC and ECCAS treaties, which guarantee free movement and residence rights for Central African citizens. He stressed the importance President Paul Biya places on protecting Cameroonian nationals abroad and highlighted Cameroon’s tradition of tolerance and hospitality toward foreign communities.
Despite the sharp tone, the minister reaffirmed the historical friendship between the two nations and proposed urgent bilateral consultations on consular matters to prevent future incidents and improve diplomatic ties while respecting the sovereignty of both countries.
Ambassador Kote Echuaca acknowledged Cameroon’s concerns, conveyed regrets from his government, and agreed to the proposal for a swift diplomatic consultation. Both sides indicated a willingness to defuse tensions and reinforce stability and unity in the Central African region.