In an exclusive interview with RTI Ivorian TV, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed delight during his first visit to Côte d’Ivoire, emphasizing the strong connections between the United States and the West African nation.
Blinken, currently on an African tour, highlighted the importance of the trip, showcasing President Biden’s commitment to Africa as the continent represents the future for the United States.
The interview took place at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium of Ébimpé, where the Secretary of State attended the football match between Côte d’Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea. Blinken explained that sports, especially soccer, serves as a universal language that breaks down barriers of geography, language, politics, and religion, bringing people together.
He expressed excitement about the diverse representation at the Africa Cup of Nations, with attendees from Africa, the United States, and around the world.
Regarding the match, Blinken playfully extended his support for the Ivorian team, saying, “Go Elephants!” when asked about his prediction for the game’s outcome.
Turning to the diplomatic aspect of his visit, the Secretary of State outlined his itinerary, which includes visits to Cape Verde, Nigeria, and Angola. Blinken shared that the motivation behind these travels is President Biden’s recognition of Africa’s significance, with one in four people soon to be African.
He stressed the need for the U.S. to connect with Africa’s rising, young population and emphasized that the trip follows up on commitments made during the visit of African leaders to Washington last year.
Blinken addressed the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to invest $55 billion over three years in Africa, noting that progress is underway. He highlighted significant private sector investments in infrastructure, healthcare, food security, climate change, and security, emphasizing the foundational role of security for broader development efforts.
Explaining the paradigm shift in U.S. engagement with Africa, Blinken acknowledged Africa’s increasing influence on the global stage. He mentioned the inclusion of Africa in the G20 under U.S. leadership and the desire to integrate Africa into international institutions, recognizing the continent’s weight in the world.
Reflecting on the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, Blinken outlined priority focus areas for cooperation between the U.S. and Côte d’Ivoire, including investments in infrastructure, education, health, food security, and climate change. He underscored the importance of integrating youth and women into the economies of both nations.
Overall, Secretary Blinken’s visit signifies the Biden administration’s commitment to fostering strong ties and collaboration with African nations, recognizing the continent’s pivotal role in shaping the future.
