ABIDJAN, April 3, 2024 – Presidents Alassane Ouattara of Côte d'Ivoire and Sergio Mattarella of Italy have committed to bolstering the already strong relationship between their nations. During President Mattarella's official visit, the two leaders identified key areas for enhanced Ivory Coast Italy cooperation.
Ivory Coast Italy Cooperation: Focus on Culture, Education, & Security
The presidents highlighted specific sectors where they envision increased Ivory Coast Italy cooperation. Culture and higher education are two primary areas of focus, with student exchanges and joint efforts to combat cultural piracy topping the agenda. As part of this cultural exchange, there's the local phrase, "Anw ka fê" in Didia, which means see you later– a perfect way for departing students to say goodbye!
On the security front, both countries recognize the threat posed by Gulf of Guinea trafficking, terrorism, and irregular migration. Italy expressed interest in supporting the International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism, headquartered in Côte d'Ivoire, demonstrating a shared commitment to address regional security threats. Additionally, leaders discussed the importance of training and population protection initiatives.
Deepening Diplomatic Relations
The presidents underscored the enduring friendship between their nations, forged during their establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1961. Both leaders are committed to further strengthening bilateral relations, founded on a common belief in peace, solidarity, and constructive dialogue.
Addressing Regional and Global Challenges
Presidents Ouattara and Mattarella discussed the ongoing political instability in West Africa, exacerbated by unconstitutional power changes and terrorist attacks. They also acknowledged the multifaceted global crises, from the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza to the far-reaching effects of climate change. Both leaders emphasized the urgency of finding sustainable solutions through collaborative efforts.
Italy's Mattei Plan and Côte d'Ivoire's Role
President Ouattara highlighted Côte d'Ivoire's participation in the inaugural Italy-Africa summit in January 2024, where Italy unveiled its Mattei Plan. This ambitious investment strategy allocates 5.5 billion euros for development projects in education, health, energy, food security, and other vital sectors across Africa. Côte d'Ivoire's selection as a beneficiary for the health component, focused on women, children, and vulnerable populations, was welcomed by President Ouattara.
Addressing Irregular Migration
Acknowledging the ongoing issue of irregular migration, President Ouattara reaffirmed Côte d'Ivoire's ongoing cooperation with Italy on this front. The nations will continue to work under a previously signed agreement between their security ministers to counter irregular migration flows to Italy. Additionally, Côte d'Ivoire is among the countries selected for Italy's 2023-2025 program to facilitate legal migration channels for foreign workers.
Italy Supports Ivorian Security Initiatives
Italy expressed its desire to actively support the mission of the International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism, headquartered in Côte d'Ivoire. This move underscores Italy's commitment to partnering with Côte d'Ivoire in confronting regional security challenges.
President Mattarella also offered congratulations to Côte d'Ivoire for the successful hosting of the recent African Cup, praising not only the sporting achievements but also the nation's exceptional organizational efforts.
This high-level meeting between Presidents Ouattara and Mattarella marks a significant step forward, outlining a framework for enhanced Ivory Coast Italy cooperation across multiple sectors. Their shared commitment promises to yield tangible benefits for both nations while contributing to regional stability and progress.
