In a notable diplomatic move, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, during her visit to Addis Ababa, called for establishing the foundations of genuine and strategic cooperation between Africa and Italy, emphasizing that this partnership must be based on the principle of "equality and mutual respect." In her address to the 39th African Union Summit, Meloni stressed her country's ambition to be a pivotal bridge connecting Europe and Africa, not only geographically, but also economically and politically.
Historical background and a new vision: From the colonial past to the Mattei Plan
This invitation comes amid a major shift in Italian foreign policy toward Africa. Historical relations between the two sides are complex, bearing the legacy of Italian colonialism in countries such as Libya, Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia. However, the Meloni government now seeks to turn the page and open a new chapter based on shared interests and mutual development. The cornerstone of this new vision is the “Matti Plan,” a strategic initiative named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of the Italian energy giant Eni in the 1950s, who advocated for non-exploitative relationships with energy-producing nations, based on partnership rather than domination.
The strategic importance and expected impact of the partnership
The importance of this proposed partnership extends beyond bilateral relations, with implications at both the regional and international levels. Its objectives revolve around several key areas:
- Europe's energy security: Amid the Ukrainian crisis and Europe's efforts to reduce its dependence on Russian gas, Italy sees Africa as a strategic partner and a reliable energy source. The plan aims to transform Italy into a major energy distribution hub from Africa to the rest of the European Union.
- Addressing illegal immigration: Immigration is one of the most significant challenges facing Italy and Europe. The philosophy of the "Matti Plan" is based on addressing the root causes of migration by investing in economic development and creating job opportunities for young people in their countries of origin, thereby reducing the incentives for risky migration.
- Countering growing international influence: The Italian initiative comes at a time of increasing geopolitical competition for influence in Africa by global powers such as China and Russia. Rome offers an alternative model of cooperation, focusing on sustainable development and technology transfer rather than debt or exploitation.
Meloni emphasized that “true cooperation is continuous and can only exist within a framework of equality, a relationship where the unique characteristics of each party are essential to achieving a common goal.” With the second Italy-Africa Summit underway, attention is focused on how this ambitious vision will be translated into concrete projects that benefit both sides and establish a new phase in Euro-African relations.
