The city of Abidjan is hosting the 2026 Africa Meetings, a major Francophone economic gathering aimed at strengthening cooperation between French-speaking territories and promoting shared economic development across the Francophone space.

The event is organized by the International Association of Francophone Regions (AIRF), in collaboration with the Association of Regions and Districts of Côte d’Ivoire (ARDCI). It combines the AIRF General Assembly 2026 with an economic forum known as “Les Rencontres Africa,” held from June 15 to 17, 2026.

The opening conference of the Francophone economic meeting took place on Tuesday, June 16 at the Auditorium of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Abidjan.

The ceremony was presided over by Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister, Robert Beugré Mambé, in the presence of Minister of State Nialé Kaba.

According to organizers, the initiative aims to make Francophone economic cooperation a key driver of development by fostering investment, encouraging partnerships, and strengthening economic exchanges between territories.

The program includes conferences, panel discussions, and business-to-business meetings bringing together elected officials, companies, institutions, and civil society organizations.

A notable feature of the 2026 edition is the participation of 38 French companies alongside numerous Ivorian stakeholders, reflecting a shared commitment to deepening economic ties and promoting sustainable development within the Francophone space.

Organizers say the meeting is part of a broader effort to position Francophone cooperation as a practical platform for investment and inclusive growth across participating regions.