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Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand will visit Benin and Côte d’Ivoire from August 4 to 6, 2026, to strengthen diplomatic, economic and development ties. In Benin, she will meet with senior officials to discuss trade diversification, economic growth, regional security and gender equality, while exploring opportunities within La Francophonie. The visit aims to deepen bilateral cooperation and identify areas for joint action. Canada also plans to upgrade its diplomatic presence in Benin from an office to a full embassy, reflecting a broader commitment to engagement in West Africa.

In Côte d’Ivoire, Anand will meet with Vice Prime Minister and Defence Minister Téné Birahima Ouattara, Foreign Minister Nialé Kaba, and Education Minister N’Guessan Koffi to advance the strategic partnership. Discussions will focus on peace and security, sustainable development and multilateral collaboration, including within La Francophonie. The visit highlights Côte d’Ivoire’s role as a key partner in promoting regional stability and prosperity. Canadian officials will also engage with private sector leaders to explore trade and investment opportunities in sectors such as mining, infrastructure and digital technologies.

Canada and Benin established diplomatic relations in 1962 and have since cooperated on development, trade and multilateral issues. In 2024-2025, Canada provided over $49.2 million in development assistance to Benin, supporting gender equality, youth employability, microfinance and climate-resilient agriculture. Both countries also collaborate on regional security priorities, including efforts to strengthen stability in the central Sahel and the Gulf of Guinea. The planned embassy upgrade in Cotonou underscores Canada’s long-term commitment to deepening its partnership with Benin.

Canada and Côte d’Ivoire have maintained diplomatic relations since 1962, with Canada operating an embassy in Abidjan since 1970. The relationship is built on trade, investment and development cooperation, with Canadian mining assets in Côte d’Ivoire valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2024. Canada supports Côte d’Ivoire’s priorities in inclusive economic growth, gender equality, climate action and sustainable development, while working together on regional peace and stability. The visit by Minister Anand aims to reinforce these efforts and explore further collaboration in key sectors.