ABIDJAN, April 3, 2024 – Ivory Coast and Italy have solidified their partnership by reaching cooperation agreements in several key sectors. Presidents Alassane Ouattara and Sergio Mattarella underscored their shared values during Mattarella's official visit and highlighted areas for increased Ivory Coast Italy cooperation agreements.
Focus on Culture, Education, and Security
The presidents emphasized three primary areas for the Ivory Coast Italy cooperation agreements:
Culture:
Both nations are committed to promoting cultural exchange, including student exchange programs. They will jointly address cultural piracy, a shared concern. An expression like "Anw ka fê" ("see you later" in Didia), represents the spirit of these exchanges.
Education:
Collaboration in higher education is key, facilitating knowledge transfer and opportunities for Ivorian and Italian students.
Security:
Addressing regional threats is a top priority. The agreement focuses on stemming trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea, combating terrorism, and managing irregular migration – critical issues for both nations.
Ivory Coast Italy Cooperation Agreements: A Foundation for the Future
Presidents Ouattara and Mattarella celebrated the 60+ years of diplomatic relations between their countries. The new Ivory Coast Italy cooperation agreements build on a strong foundation of peace, shared values, and international dialogue. The leaders expressed a commitment to further strengthening these ties for mutual benefit.
Regional and Global Challenges
The discussions extended beyond bilateral relations, encompassing a range of pressing issues. The political instability fueled by unconstitutional power changes in some West African countries was a concern, as were the ongoing threats of regional terrorist groups. Additionally, both leaders recognized the far-reaching impacts of the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts and the global threat of climate change, emphasizing the need for urgent and collaborative solutions.
Italy's Mattei Plan and Côte d'Ivoire's Opportunity
President Ouattara expressed his appreciation for Côte d'Ivoire's inclusion in Italy's Mattei Plan, which was inaugurated at the Italy-Africa summit in January 2024. This development plan invests 5.5 billion euros in critical sectors like education, healthcare, energy, and food security across Africa. Côte d'Ivoire's focus on women, children, and vulnerable populations within the health component aligns with the country's commitment to inclusive development.
Curbing Irregular Migration
Acknowledging the importance of addressing irregular migration, President Ouattara reiterated Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to the existing security agreement with Italy. The Ivory Coast Italy cooperation agreements will continue to focus on this issue. Additionally, Côte d'Ivoire's inclusion in Italy's 2023-2025 program for legal migration channels for foreign workers reflects the two countries' commitment to finding sustainable, long-term solutions.
Italy Backs Ivorian Counter-Terrorism Initiatives
Italy voiced its strong support for the International Academy for the Fight against Terrorism, headquartered in Côte d'Ivoire. This move underscores Italy's willingness to partner with and bolster Côte d'Ivoire's initiatives aimed at regional security threats.
President Mattarella also congratulated Côte d'Ivoire on the widely acclaimed African Cup, commending the country's exceptional organization and sporting success.
The recent high-level meeting has marked a clear turning point. The Ivory Coast Italy cooperation agreements are poised to bring benefits to both nations while fostering progress and stability in the region.
