California has become the latest example of how subnational diplomacy is strengthening the partnership between the United States and  Côte d’Ivoire.

Congratulations to Mr. Eugène Aka Aouélé, President of Côte d'Ivoire's Economic, Social, Environmental and Cultural Council (CESEC) a constitutional advisory institution that provides recommendations to the government on economic, social, environmental, and cultural policies as well as to the Silicon Valley Task Force and the representatives of Ivorian universities who took part in a study mission to California last April.

The mission marked an important milestone in U.S.–  Côte d’Ivoire cooperation. A major highlight was the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding between the CESEC and San Diego State University, paving the way for expanded collaboration in higher education, research, innovation, and workforce development. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence, knowledge exchange, and innovation-driven growth.

Read also The United States and Côte d’Ivoire: Strengthening Our Partnership - United States Department of State

During their visit, the Ivorian delegation explored one of the world's most dynamic innovation ecosystems, engaging with universities, technology leaders, and innovation stakeholders to identify new opportunities for collaboration and long-term partnership.

This initiative is part of the U.S. Embassy's broader commitment to advancing subnational diplomacy by building partnerships between America's 50 states and Ivorian institutions. Over the past year, the Embassy facilitated a trade mission to Louisiana, celebrated the signing of a landmark agreement with Pennsylvania through the State Partnership Program, and supported this California mission each initiative demonstrating how state-level partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for economic growth, education, innovation, and people-to-people ties.

Chargé d'Affaires Junaid Munir was pleased to participate in the certificate ceremony hosted by the CESEC to recognize the senior government officials, university leaders, and researchers who contributed to the success of this mission.

Congratulations to all participants on this important achievement. Through partnerships like these, subnational diplomacy continues to deepen the relationship between the United States and  Côte d’Ivoire while creating new opportunities for innovation, education, and shared prosperity.