(Ecofin Agency) - Ukraine has further solidified its ties with Côte d'Ivoire by inaugurating its embassy in Abidjan yesterday April 11. The ceremony was attended by Maksym Soubkh, a special envoy of the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, and Wautabouna Ouattara, the Ivorian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Local media highlighted the strategic importance of the new embassy, underscoring the reciprocal nature of the relationship between the two nations. Côte d'Ivoire, having supported Ukraine in various international forums, including the United Nations, views the opening as a key step in strengthening diplomatic ties.

Minister Ouattara remarked that the initiative would significantly boost bilateral cooperation, opening new avenues for collaboration across various sectors. Ukraine, meanwhile, expressed its intention to establish a stronger presence in West Africa, a region where Russian diplomacy is notably active.

Economic relations between Abidjan and Kyiv have also seen considerable growth over the years. According to Minister Ouattara, trade between the two countries exceeded $100 million in 2023, indicating a deepening of economic ties.

It should be noted that Maksym Soubkh previously opened an embassy in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In the coming weeks, he plans to travel to Ghana, Mozambique, Botswana, and Rwanda to officially open more diplomatic missions.