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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, and sustainable development. The ministers highlighted the existing partnership between the two countries, rooted in shared democratic values and multilateral collaboration. They signed a memorandum of understanding to create a formal mechanism for ongoing bilateral consultations, aiming to strengthen the overall relationship. The meeting also served to exchange perspectives on regional stability, peacebuilding, and security in West Africa, with an emphasis on locally driven solutions and democratic governance.

Minister Anand announced Canada’s intention to begin negotiations to expand the Air Transport Agreement with Côte d’Ivoire, signaling efforts to deepen economic and commercial ties. She also referenced Canada’s Africa Strategy, which prioritizes economic cooperation, trade, investment, and sustainable development with African partners. Anand highlighted the Africa Trade Hub, a program designed to assist Canadian businesses in identifying and pursuing opportunities in African markets, including Côte d’Ivoire. The ministers discussed ways to promote inclusive growth and advance shared goals on human rights, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and youth.

Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue to further strengthen the bilateral relationship. They agreed to collaborate on pressing international issues, reflecting a shared approach to global challenges. The meeting underscored the importance of sustained engagement between Canada and Côte d’Ivoire across diplomatic, economic, and development sectors. No specific timelines or additional agreements were disclosed during the discussions.

The meeting took place in Abidjan, with both ministers emphasizing the importance of the partnership between Canada and Côte d’Ivoire. The discussions were framed within the context of existing cooperation mechanisms and future opportunities for collaboration. The memorandum signed during the meeting is intended to provide a structured framework for ongoing engagement between the two countries.