Luanda: The Ambassador of C´te d'Ivoire to Angola, Santiero Jean-Marie Somet, announced on Wednesday the interest of several Ivorian companies, including multinationals, in investing in Angola's agricultural sector. The proposed investments focus on the production of palm oil, cocoa, cashew nuts, and coffee, aiming to rejuvenate Angola's agricultural industry, which was once a leading global coffee producer.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the ambassador shared these plans following an audience with Ado de Almeida, the Speaker of the National Assembly. The ambassador emphasized the desire to strengthen bilateral relations and foster extensive cooperation involving various companies and partners. He also advocated for the revival of the Angola-C´te d'Ivoire friendship group at the parliamentary level.
The Ivorian diplomat also extended an invitation from the Ivorian Senate to Angolan female parliamentarians for an international forum scheduled from April 22 to 25 in Yamoussoukro. This event aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences among women from different African nations and to reinforce their role in the continent's development. The meeting with the Speaker also served as an opportunity to congratulate Ado de Almeida on his recent election and to reinforce parliamentary ties between the two nations.
In addition, the diplomat highlighted the visit of Angolan President Joo Louren§o to Abidjan for the inauguration of Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara last year, marking a significant moment in the enhancement of bilateral ties.
Moreover, the two countries have re-established air connections between their capitals. TAAG, Angola Airlines, announced the commencement of ticket sales for its new route linking Luanda to Abidjan, with services starting on April 6. This development is part of the Air Services Agreement, recently signed in Luanda, aimed at promoting regional integration in Africa. The new route will operate thrice weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Abidjan, recognized as the economic capital of C´te d'Ivoire and a gateway to Francophone West Africa, is a major financial and commercial hub. The air link is seen as a crucial step in enhancing economic and social exchanges. Relations between Angola and C´te d'Ivoire are experiencing significant growth in economic, political, and technical cooperation, as evidenced by the signing of over 14 legal agreements in 2024, encompassing sectors such as agriculture, mining, hydrocarbons, health, and the resumption of direct air links to boost regional trade.
