Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani affirmed today that Italy is keen on adopting a comprehensive approach in Africa through the Mattei plan.
Speaking at the Internationalization Control Room event held today at the Ministry of Economic Development and Made in Italy, Tajani emphasized Italy’s intention to not only focus on financial and energy sectors but also to engage in organizing joint ventures and exporting Italian expertise, according to Italy’s “Decode 39” website.
Tajani highlighted the strategic importance of the Suez Canal and the Red Sea for Italy, stating that “40% of Italian maritime exports pass through these routes.”
This underscores Italy‘s strong commitment to the European-led mission ESPEDS, with Italy entrusted with its operational leadership, aiming to ensure the absolute protection of Italian commercial vessels.
The Italian Foreign Minister further clarified, “The rules are very clear: to destroy anything that attacks our commercial ships.”
Last January, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced a significant investment initiative exceeding €5.5 billion ($5.9 billion) aimed at enhancing Italy’s relationship with Africa.
This effort is designed to advance energy partnerships and mitigate migration. Meloni hosted a summit with around 25 African leaders, positioning Italy as a key intermediary between the European Union (EU) and Africa.
She emphasized the necessity of addressing the root causes of migration to effectively combat illegal immigration and human trafficking.
The Italian government plans to collaborate with international financial entities and donor countries and intends to introduce a new financial tool in partnership with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to encourage private investment.
This initiative, named the “Mattei Plan” after Enrico Mattei, aims to reinforce Italy’s longstanding ties with Africa.
