Italy Reaffirms Its Commitment to Africa: Meeting of Italian Ambassadors and Cooperation Directors in Cape Town

Introduction and Context of the Meeting

The meeting of the ambassadors and directors of theItalian Development Cooperation Agency (AICS) Southern Africa will be held in Cape Town on 6 and 7 July 2024. This event represents an important opportunity to consolidate and strengthen Italian action in the region, in line with the objectives of the Mattei Plan. This strategic plan aims to intensify cooperation and dialogue between Italy and Africa, recognising the crucial role that the African continent plays in Italian foreign policy.

Antonio Tajani, Vice-President of the Council and Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated the strategic importance of Africa for Italy, emphasising that the continent is a priority in Italian foreign policy. Strengthening relations with African countries is seen as a key element in promoting stability, security and sustainable economic development in both regions. The Cape Town meeting follows previous meetings held in Dar es Salaam and Abidjan, which covered East and West Africa respectively.

These meetings are crucial for coordinating Italian cooperation initiatives and strategies in Africa, evaluating achievements and identifying areas for improvement. The Cape Town event not only allows for a review of current policies, but also provides a platform to discuss new opportunities for collaboration and future projects. Tajani's presence further underlines Italy's commitment to maintain and expand its relations with African countries, recognising the importance of a collaborative and inclusive approach.

In summary, the Cape Town meeting represents a significant step in Italian efforts to strengthen cooperation with Southern Africa. Through dialogue and collaboration, Italy aims to actively contribute to the sustainable development and economic growth of the regionwhile consolidating the historical and cultural ties that unite the two continents.

Objectives and Topics of the Meeting

The first session of the meeting of Italian cooperation ambassadors and directors in Cape Town was devoted to outlining the prospects for Italian action in Southern Africa. The primary objective is to initiate development projects that are based on a genuine 'partnership of equals' approach. This implies a bilateral collaboration in which both parties make significant contributions, enhancing their respective skills and resources.

A crucial aspect of the discussion was the role of Italy in Africa to promote sustainable and inclusive development. Participants examined various initiatives that aim to strengthen local infrastructure, improve access to education and health, and support technological innovation. These projects are seen as key tools to stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty in the region.

The second session of the meeting highlighted the contribution of the new Italian cooperation strategy to the success of the Mattei Plan. This strategy focuses on a series of interventions aimed at improving governance, promoting food security and facing the challenges of climate change. Participants emphasised the importance of an integrated approach that takes into account regional political and economic dynamics.

Furthermore, the main regional and international issues were analysed, with a special focus on the dynamics influencing bilateral cooperation between Italy and Africa. Political stability, trade relations and investment opportunities were identified as key elements for the success of cooperation projects. The meeting made it possible to identify areas of common interest and to define operational strategies to address emerging challenges.

The Cape Town meeting will be attended by the ambassadors of the main Italian diplomatic offices in Southern Africa. This meeting will be attended by high-level figures, such as the directors of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), responsible for the region. The participation of such representatives is crucial to ensure a comprehensive and detailed view of the challenges and opportunities in this part of the African continent.

The Secretary General of the Farnesina, Ambassador Riccardo Guariglia, will chair the meeting, following the guidelines and instructions of Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Guariglia's leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that discussions are productive and result-oriented. His experience and knowledge of international dynamics will be crucial in maintaining a coordinated and strategic approach, strengthening ties between Italy and Africa.

This meeting is part of a series of previous meetings aimed at consolidating a strategic approach in the region. The main objective is to improve cooperation and promote sustainable development through concrete and well-planned projects. The presence and active role of AICS ambassadors and directors are essential for the success of such initiatives, ensuring that the policies implemented are effective and respond to the real needs of African countries.

The Cape Town meeting therefore represents a significant opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations and to define new cooperation strategies. Guariglia's leadership, in close cooperation with Minister Tajani and the other participants, will be crucial in achieving common goals and consolidating the Italian presence in Africa. This concerted and strategic approach is essential to address global challenges and promote inclusive and sustainable development.

Bilateral Meeting and Conclusions

On the sidelines of the meeting of Ambassadors and Directors of Italian Cooperation in Cape Town, Secretary General Ettore Francesco Sequi had a bilateral meeting with Zane Dangor, Secretary General of the South African Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation. This meeting was a crucial moment to discuss the main regional and international issues affecting both countries. Among the topics discussed, security, sustainable development, and strategies to meet the challenges posed by globalisation played a central role.

The discussion emphasised the importance of cooperation between Italy and South Africa in addressing issues of common interest, such as climate change, migration and peace promotion. Both secretaries-general expressed a strong desire to further strengthen bilateral relations through concrete projects and shared initiatives. This dialogue highlighted how structured and continuous cooperation can lead to positive results for both nations.

Strengthening relations between Italy and South Africa represents a key piece in Italy's strategy of engagement in Africa. Cooperation between the two countries not only aims to promote stability and economic development but also to create opportunities for growth and prosperity for both regions. The bilateral meeting in Cape Town thus marked an important step forward in consolidating a partnership that aims to be mutually beneficial.

In conclusion, this initiative confirms Italy's commitment to play a significant role in Africa's development and stability. Through mutually beneficial cooperation and constant dialogue, Italy reaffirms its willingness to actively contribute to the challenges and opportunities that characterise the African continent. The meeting between Guariglia and Dangor is therefore a symbol of this will and a concrete example of how diplomacy can build bridges and promote collective well-being.