Italy, on Monday, unveiled an almost S$6 billion plan to support Africa’s development at a one-day Italy-Africa Summit in Rome.
African Development Bank Group President,Dr Akinwumi Adesina, joined 25 African leaders and European Union officials at the summit.
The summit, which took place as Italy assumes the Presidency of the G7 this month, and a few weeks ahead of the 37th Ordinary Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa, was one at which Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni called for a new Italian partnership with Africa.
His words: “We believe it is possible to envision and write a new chapter in the history of our relationship, a cooperation among equals, far from any predatory imposition or charitable stance towards Africa. There is a natural inclination for Italy to be a bridge between Africa and Europe. The whole world cannot think about the future without Africa.”
The Italian leader, therefore, announced various initiatives designed to boost economic links and create an energy hub for Europe, while curbing Africans’ emigration to Europe. They included an initial pledge of €5.5 billion (S$5.95 billion), including guarantees.
African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki, welcomed the support, noting that prior consultation with the continent would have been desirable, particularly when the Mattei Plan was being drafted. He said the plan, nonetheless, aligns with Africa’s priorities.
Adesina, on his part, highlighted his organisation’s key role in supporting African countries.
He said Africa’s economic trajectory was compelling.
“With a population of 1.4 billion, the largest youth population in the world, the largest renewable energy sources in the world, the largest deposits of critical minerals and metals globally, and the largest share of uncultivated arable land left in the world, Africa will determine the future of the world,” Adesina added.
