Minister Anand meets with Minister of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire
Canada and Côte d’Ivoire signed a memorandum to formalize bilateral consultations, with ministers discussing regional security, economic ties, and Canada’s Africa Strategy during a meeting in Abidjan.
Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, met with Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Nialé Kaba, in Abidjan to review cooperation on diplomacy, economics, multilateral issues, and sustainable development. The ministers highlighted the existing partnership between the two countries, rooted in shared democratic values and collaboration. They signed a memorandum of understanding to create a formal mechanism for ongoing bilateral consultations, aiming to strengthen the overall relationship.
The ministers exchanged perspectives on regional stability, peacebuilding, and security in West Africa, stressing locally driven solutions and democratic governance. They also discussed deepening economic and commercial ties, including Canada’s intention to negotiate an expansion of the Air Transport Agreement between the two countries. The meeting reflected a focus on practical steps to enhance cooperation.
Minister Anand referenced Canada’s Africa Strategy, which guides engagement with African partners through economic cooperation, trade, investment, and sustainable development support. She noted the role of the Africa Trade Hub in assisting Canadian businesses exploring opportunities in African markets, including Côte d’Ivoire, to facilitate trade and investment.
The ministers reviewed opportunities to promote inclusive growth and advance shared goals on human rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and youth. They reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close dialogue to address pressing international issues and further strengthen the bilateral relationship between Canada and Côte d’Ivoire.