ABIDJAN, February 6, 2024 – In a significant step towards enhanced maritime security, the governments of Côte d'Ivoire and the United States of America signed an agreement aimed at intensifying cooperation in combating illicit transnational maritime activities. The agreement was formalized in Abidjan-Plateau on February 6, 2024, by Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration, and Ivorians Abroad Kacou Houadja Léon Adom and US Ambassador Jessica Davis Ba. The ceremony was attended by Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Transport Amadou Koné and US Coast Guard representative Trent Warner.
Côte d'Ivoire, US Partnership for Maritime Security
"This agreement aims to reinforce law enforcement cooperation in identifying, combating, preventing, and interdicting illicit transnational maritime activities involving suspicious vessels," stated Minister Adom. This encompassing approach reflects the shared commitment of both nations to safeguarding maritime security.
Tangible Benefits for Côte d'Ivoire's Maritime Security Efforts
The agreement includes provisions for the United States to provide material support to Côte d'Ivoire, bolstering the nation's capacity to address and deter illicit maritime activities.
Additionally, the partnership fosters the valuable exchange of expertise and experience between the two navies as they engage in joint operations at sea.
Gratitude and a Strengthened Partnership
On behalf of President Alassane Ouattara, Minister Adom conveyed Côte d'Ivoire's deep appreciation to the United States for the robust and multifaceted cooperation between the two nations.
Côte d'Ivoire, US Maritime Security: A Shared Commitment
Ambassador Ba affirmed Côte d'Ivoire's status as a key strategic partner for the United States and highlighted the agreement as a testament to both nations' resolve in bolstering cooperation for a safer maritime domain.
US Coast Guard Shiprider Program to Boost Côte d'Ivoire's Maritime Security
Significantly, the agreement opens the door for collaboration within the US Coast Guard's Shiprider program. This initiative will enable trained Ivorian law enforcement personnel to embark on US Coast Guard vessels to support maritime law enforcement efforts within Côte d'Ivoire's territorial waters.
Leadership in the Gulf of Guinea
Ambassador Ba commended Côte d'Ivoire for its leadership within the Friends of the Gulf of Guinea group, underscoring the pivotal role the nation plays in regional maritime security initiatives.
