Decoding the news: Rome is doubling down on Africa as a strategic partner, using the Mattei Plan to anchor a long-term political and economic engagement with the continent.
The Summit: Italy will host the second Italy–Africa Summit at heads-of-state and government level on Feb. 13 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced the date during her year-opening press conference.
Context: The summit will be held in Africa for the first time and will coincide with the African Union Summit, on the eve of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government.
- Meloni will attend as guest of honor and speak at the opening plenary of the AU Assembly on Saturday, Feb. 14.
What’s driving it: The meeting marks another step in implementing the Mattei Plan for Africa, launched in Rome in January 2024, aimed at building a structured partnership with African nations.
- Priority areas include sustainable development, infrastructure, energy, education and training, healthcare, and agriculture.
Looking ahead… The summit will also review progress made so far under the Mattei Plan and set operational priorities for the coming years, including new joint projects, political dialogue, and coordinated “system missions” across the continent.
(Photo: Italian Government)
