Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of State, Anne Ouloto Désirée Lamizana, led a delegation to the 40th anniversary of the Spirit of Assise in Italy, where she shared her country's experience on peace and reconstruction. The event, organized by the Community of Sant'Egidio, was held under the theme "A disarmed and disarming peace." Ouloto represented the government of Côte d'Ivoire, which has undergone significant transformation since the crisis that ravaged the country 15 years ago.
During the forum "Africa between opportunities and crises," Ouloto shared Côte d'Ivoire's story of resilience and recovery under the leadership of President Alassane Ouattara. She highlighted the country's efforts to rebuild and reconcile, emphasizing that peace is a prerequisite for development. Ouloto also acknowledged the country's past struggles, including conflicts, displacement of people, and exile, but noted that these challenges have been overcome through dialogue, indemnification of victims, and the return of exiles.
Ouloto emphasized that Côte d'Ivoire's experience has led to a conviction that peace is the first condition for development. She noted that the country's reconstruction efforts have been guided by the principles of equity, territorial balance, and the strengthening of institutions. The Minister of State also acknowledged the role of the Community of Sant'Egidio and its founder, Professor Andrea Riccardi, in mediating the resolution of the Ivorian crisis.
The Ivorian delegation's presence at Assise was particularly significant, as it marked a new chapter in the country's history. Ouloto expressed Côte d'Ivoire's gratitude to the Community of Sant'Egidio and its founder for their role in resolving the crisis. She also emphasized that Côte d'Ivoire is committed to sharing its experience with others, with humility and fraternity, and to contributing to regional peace and stability.
Ouloto also advocated for a more just global governance and a fair representation of the African continent in the United Nations Security Council. She welcomed the Mattei Plan for Africa, which aims to promote cooperation in areas such as agriculture, health, education, and digital technology. Côte d'Ivoire is a pilot country for the plan, and Ouloto expressed her country's enthusiasm for the opportunities it presents.
The forum in Assise brought together voices of dialogue and peace from around the world. Ouloto's intervention was well-received, with the audience applauding her expression of gratitude to the Community of Sant'Egidio. Her message was one of hope and resilience, highlighting the possibility of rebuilding and recovering from conflict and crisis.
Ultimately, Côte d'Ivoire's experience, as shared by Ouloto at Assise, serves as a testament to the power of peace and dialogue in achieving national reconstruction. The country's story is one of transformation, from a nation ravaged by conflict to one that has rediscovered its path to peace and development. As Ouloto noted, "The Ivoiriens have relearned to live together."
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of State, Anne Ouloto, shares her country's experience on peace and reconstruction at the 40th anniversary of the Spirit of Assise in Italy.
- The country's efforts to rebuild and reconcile have been guided by the principles of equity, territorial balance, and the strengthening of institutions.
- Côte d'Ivoire is committed to sharing its experience with others, with humility and fraternity, and to contributing to regional peace and stability.
