Côte d'Ivoire and the European Union review their cooperation priorities

Côte d'Ivoire and the European Union (EU) reviewed the priorities of their 60 years of cooperation during the second session of the year 2021 of the partnership dialogue Côte d'Ivoire-EU.

For the Minister Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Diaspora, Kandia Camara, the cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire and the EU have always been dynamic, ambitious and beneficial to both parties in all areas. It is therefore appropriate "after more than 60 years of cooperation to stop for a while to take stock and assess the situation, to see the progress and also to talk about the prospects", stressed Ms Camara.

This consultation will enable us to discuss important issues for the development of Côte d'Ivoire. These include the country's social and political situation since the June 2020 session, regional security, the Covid 19 pandemic, cooperation and development, trade and investment.

"As we reach the end of the Cotonou (ACP) Agreement signed in 2013 between Africa, the Caribbean, Pacific region countries and the EU, Côte d'Ivoire is hopeful that the new agreement coming into effect in 2022 will enable all the parties to face the challenges ahead," she said.

For Jobst Von Kirchmann, the EU representative in Côte d'Ivoire, his institution has identified three areas of cooperation:
The production of sustainable cocoa, a common challenge to both parties, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, with support to Côte d'Ivoire for the implementation of its strategy to achieve a green economy and finally, the preservation of stability and peace, which is to help the country to remain a haven of peace.

"I am sure that we will remain partners for a very long time beyond 60 years, precisely to accompany Côte d'Ivoire towards emergence," Mr Von Kirchmann assured, noting that this partnership has evolved enormously. The two parties now share the same values, ambitions and visions. This partnership shows at several levels, notably investment, trade, and the provision of funds to the economy.

The European Union has a global portfolio of financed projects estimated at more than 2700 billion CFA francs. It buys 40% of Ivorian products and is its leading investor with more than 40% foreign direct investment (FDI). 500 European companies are established in Côte d'Ivoire, accounting for 10% of employment.

IPA