2026 New Year Wishes : Cameroon Reaffirms Its Diplomatic Standing

The country once again projected its image as a stable and respected partner on the international stage as President of the Republic, His Excellency Paul Biya, received, on Thursday, 8 January 2026, at the Unity Palace.

The ceremony, which traditionally marks the opening of the institutional year, unfolded in two carefully structured phases. In the first, heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of international organisations and high commissioners, led by their dean, H.E. Armando Kote Echuaca, Ambassador of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, paid their respects to the Head of State. Speaking on behalf of the diplomatic community, the dean congratulated President Biya on his convincing re-election in the 12 October 2025 presidential election, underlining the renewed trust placed in his leadership and long-term vision for peace, stability and economic progress.

He further praised Cameroon’s sustained role as a stabilising force in Central Africa, despite a complex regional security environment. Particular appreciation was expressed for the country’s tradition of hospitality towards refugees and displaced persons, as well as for the President’s constant advocacy for dialogue, moderation and peaceful coexistence among nations.

In his response, President Paul Biya expressed gratitude to partner countries for their continued cooperation and support, notably during Cameroon’s successful presidency of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly from September 2024 to September 2025. He recalled that this international responsibility strengthened Cameroon’s voice in global decision-making and enhanced its diplomatic credibility. The Head of State also welcomed the adoption in Yaoundé, in July 2025, of the Declaration on the Sustainable Blue Economy, describing it as a concrete contribution to global environmental and economic governance.

Turning to international affairs, the President voiced concern over the persistence of terrorism, repeated infringements on State sovereignty and the gradual erosion of international law. He warned that such developments threaten collective security, economic growth and social stability. Consistent with his longstanding commitment to multilateralism, he called for a stronger, more effective United Nations capable of promoting dialogue, preventing conflicts and safeguarding peace.

The exchange of greetings concluded with the presentation of symbolic gifts before the Head of State, accompanied by the Minister of State, Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Republic, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, the Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, and the Minister, Director of the Civil Cabinet, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, proceeded to the banqueting hall to receive New Year wishes from the national statutory bodies, comprising 37 delegations.

The ceremony reaffirmed the continuity of State institutions and the confidence of both national stakeholders and international partners in Cameroon’s leadership and strategic orientation.