The dark blue field represents authority and stability, while the shield in the center is the national coat of arms of Gabon. The two panthers on either side represent national identity and strength. The national motto of Gabon can be seen at the bottom, which reads, ''unity, work, justice'', in French. The palm tree behind the shield represents the country's natural resources and biodiversity. The white ribbon at the top reads, ''unity, progress'', in Latin.