During the official launch ceremony of the Gulf-Africa Strategic Partnership Initiative (GASPI) in Abidjan, Mrs. Nialé Kaba, Minister of Economy, Planning and Development, delivered a strong and forward-looking speech, hailing the initiative as "a turning point in the relationship between the Gulf countries and Africa."

She emphasized that this new dynamic of cooperation comes in a global context marked by profound changes: geopolitical tensions, security crises, trade wars, and the decline of multilateralism. In response to the decrease in official development aid from Africa’s traditional partners, she stressed the importance for the continent to diversify its economic partnerships, particularly with the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

"These countries represent real opportunities for Africa to broaden its sources of financing, attract more foreign direct investment, and stimulate innovation," she stated.

Mrs. Kaba also highlighted the economic strength and strategic position of Côte d'Ivoire, citing the achievements of the National Development Plan (PND) 2021–2025, which has already mobilized 75 billion USD in private investment out of a total goal of 100 billion. She mentioned that the upcoming PND 2026–2030 will focus on further diversifying the economy, with key investment opportunities in agro-industry, extractive industries, construction materials, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

"GASPI comes at the right time. It will allow us to share our major development projects with Gulf investors," she concluded, reaffirming the Ivorian government's full commitment to supporting this ambitious and promising initiative.