(Adnkronos) – Italy is well placed to represent Africa in Europe due to its interest in stabilising the continent and spurring its economic growth through ‘non-colonial’ partnerships, foreign minister Antonio Tajani argued on Tuesday.
“As far as Italy is concerned, we have the opportunity to become Africa’s ambassador in Europe,” Tajani told Rome-based daily Il Messaggero ahead of a visit to Mauritania, Senegal and Niger.
“With our companies and thanks to the Mattei Plan, we are doing a lot: development cooperation, turning uncultivated land into agricultural land, mining activities and so on,” he said.
Tajani referred to the 5.5 billion euro blueprint to propel Africa’s economic growth and stability through equitable partnerships in a raft of sectors, notably energy, agriculture, infrastructure, education and health, which premier Giorgia Meloni unveiled in January last year.
Oil and gas giant Eni is among the top Italian companies with projects in Africa, Tajani underlined.
“It (Eni) is the most sought-after player. It’s a star performer. And we have others, too,” he said.
The Italian government’s budget which lawmakers are due to approve this autumn “includes funds to promote the internationalisation of our excellent companies, including those operating in Africa,” said Tajani.
