‎Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed the President of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Italy, Giorgia Meloni for the Second Italy–Africa Summit.

The Summit reflects the strong and growing partnership between Ethiopia and Italy, as both nations come together to advance cooperation between Italy and Africa, Office of the Prime Minister stated.

“It is my great honour and pleasure to welcome Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Ethiopia as we co-host the Second Italy–Africa Summit,” Premier Abiy said on Social Media Post.

According to Abiy this occasion represents more than a diplomatic gathering; it symbolizes the deepening partnership between Italy and African nations; a partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and a common vision for sustainable growth.

“Prime Minister Meloni’s visit underscores our collective commitment to strengthening cooperation across trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation,” PM Abiy added.

The second Italia–Africa Summit, bringing together Heads of State and Government, underscores Italy’s commitment to deepening strategic ties with African nations and advancing the goals of the Mattei Plan for Africa, launched in Rome in January 2024.

This two-yearly event will be held in Africa for the first time and will take place in conjunction with the African Union Summit, on the eve of the African Union Heads of State and Government Assembly.

Two years on from its official presentation, this initiative represents a new milestone in Italy’s commitment to fostering structured political and economic partnerships with African nations, by strengthening cooperation on sustainable development, infrastructure, energy, education and training, healthcare and agriculture, in line with the strategic pillars of the Mattei Plan.

The summit will also provide an opportunity to review the progress made by the Plan, whose aim is to strengthen Italy’s presence on the continent through system-wide missions, political dialogue and joint projects, as well as to identify together the operational priorities for the coming years.