Washington, April 17, 2026 (Lusa) – Equatorial Guinea's President, Teodoro Obiang, is on an official visit to the US to reinforce bilateral relations and strengthen alliances, particularly in border and maritime security.

Obiang, who has led Equatorial Guinea for over 40 years, met US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Washington on Thursday. They discussed trade and security, according to US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.

"The two leaders reviewed opportunities to deepen bilateral commercial cooperation and strengthen partnerships in border and maritime security," he said. Landau recognised growing investment opportunities for the US private sector, including significant recent agreements with American oil companies.

The meeting allowed for a review of bilateral relations and addressed issues of mutual interest to strengthen cooperation, said the Equatoguinean government's press and information office. 

Migration policy also featured in the discussions between Obiang and Landau.

"Both parties exchanged views on the matter in a constructive dialogue, which should allow citizens of Equatorial Guinea to resume regular visa processing for the United States without major restrictions," the statement read.

Regarding security, Equatorial Guinea's head of state highlighted the Gulf of Guinea's strategic importance as a "priority zone for regional stability and the protection of international interests." He called for intensified collaboration mechanisms in this area.

Finally, the statement said that the meeting with US administration members forms part of an "intense work agenda" during the president of Equatorial Guinea's visit to the US. The visit "focusses on consolidating diplomatic ties and opening new avenues for understanding and collaboration."

DGYP/RYOL // AYLS

Lusa