Cameroon-USA: Long-standing Partners

Diplomatic relations between Cameroon and the United States of America were established in 1960 and are solid, with collaboration in multiple sectors. Health, regional security, human rights, trade, humanitarian assistance, and environmental protection are some of the domains of cooperation between the two parties. Cameroon plays a key role in regional stability and the United States is a partner in countering terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin and combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. It is thus within this framework to further enhance security ties between Cameroon and the United States that President Paul Biya on May 7, 2026 granted an audience to John William Brennan Jr, Deputy Commander of US Africa Command (Africom). The President of the Republic and the United States Army Lieutenant General had exchanges on security cooperation for the wellbeing of persons and property in the sub region. As a testament to their commitment in promoting peace and security, the two personalities discussed further partnering to address security threats in the Northern part of Cameroon, the Lake Chad Basin, and the Gulf of Guinea. This is particularly as Cameroon celebrates the 54th edition of its National Day on May 20 with activities bordering on army-civilian collaboration for peace and stability. Still in line with enforcing security, there are Cameroonians admitted to study in US military academies. Besides security, the United States collaborates with the government of Cameroon and civil society organisations on issues that improve democracy and governance, particularly with regards to human rights and humanitarian concerns in the North West, South West, and Far North Regions. Statistics indicate that the United States has since 2001, provided nearly 1.7 billion US dollars as foreign assistance to Cameroon. With regards to trade, t...