Held under the theme “Promoting Bilateral and Economic Cooperation,” the event aimed to expand economic ties beyond the traditional focus on the mining sector.
Fostering Connections
Canadian Week served as a platform for Ivorian and Canadian businesses to network and share ideas. Organizers hope this will strengthen the economic relationship between Canada and Côte d’Ivoire, a major economic power in West Africa.
Investment Beyond Mining
The event showcased diverse investment opportunities in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in tourism, hospitality, culture, and entertainment. This move encourages Canadians to broaden their economic engagement beyond the dominant mining sector.
Canadian Support
Canadian participation was strong, with Serge Nedro, President of the Canadian-African Chamber of Commerce of Ottawa (CCC-AO), expressing full support. He emphasized the alignment of Canadian Week with the CCC-AO’s mission of facilitating economic partnerships between African and Canadian companies.
Mutual Benefits
The event highlighted the potential benefits for both sides. Speakers like Pamela Landreville of “Africa Immigration and Education” and Linda Kabombo of “Ici et Alleurs Magazine” stressed the potential for Canada to diversify its economic ties with Côte d’Ivoire.
Building Bridges
The success of this inaugural event paves the way for future collaboration. Following a previous Canadian Week held in the Democratic Republic of Congo, organizers are poised to build stronger economic bridges between Canada and African nations.
AP/fss/abj/APA