Côte d’Ivoire – European Union Cooperation: 9th Partnership Dialogue Session Strengthens Strategic Priorities

The 9th session of the Partnership Dialogue between Côte d’Ivoire and the European Union (EU) was held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Prime Minister’s Auditorium, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé.

The opening ceremony took place in the presence of several government members, including the Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Nialé Kaba, who expressed her hope that the discussions would lead to relevant and constructive recommendations.

In his introductory remarks, the European Union Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Irchad Ramiandrasoa Razaaly, conveyed his gratitude to the Head of State, Alassane Ouattara, and the Prime Minister for the warm welcome and remarkable availability they have shown since his arrival. He noted that this reflects the unique quality of relations that have united the European Union and Côte d’Ivoire for the past 65 years.

Taking the floor, Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé emphasized that this annual meeting serves as a privileged framework for dialogue and assessment of cooperation between the two partners. On behalf of the President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, he expressed his appreciation for the consistency and quality of the European Union’s commitments, particularly through the “Global Gateway” strategy, which provides a framework for scaling up ambitions to an unprecedented level, with €150 billion allocated to Africa for the 2021–2027 period.

He also commended the involvement of members of the Ivorian government in this evaluation process, which is essential for strengthening and guiding cooperation efforts.

The discussions focused on two main themes: peace and security, and the business climate. They led to the conclusion of new voluntary partnership agreements in several areas, including national and regional security, security and defense cooperation, rule of law and international cooperation, trade agreements, trade and investment sustainability, as well as public-private dialogue.

Key issues on the agenda included cooperation in the areas of security, peace, business climate, and sustainable development.