By Shire Abdi - Reporter
DJIBOUTI, July 23 2026 – Djibouti and Italy are seeking to deepen economic and strategic cooperation under Italy's Mattei Plan for Africa following talks between their economy ministers on investment, connectivity and migration.
Djibouti's Minister of Economy and Finance, Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, said on Wednesday he held a "productive" meeting with Italian Economy and Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, during which the two sides discussed strengthening bilateral ties.
In a post on X, Dawaleh said the two sides laid the groundwork for closer economic and strategic cooperation, guided by the shared vision of the two countries' heads of state.
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He said the discussions focused on expanding cooperation in maritime and digital connectivity, with both countries seeking to leverage their strategic locations while addressing shared challenges, including migration.
Dawaleh also said the talks explored opportunities under the Mattei Plan, an initiative launched by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to strengthen partnerships with African countries through investment in infrastructure, energy, training and other sectors.
Djibouti sits on one of the world's busiest shipping routes at the entrance to the Red Sea, while Italy has identified the Horn of Africa as a priority region under its Africa strategy.