Somalia Takes Part In Italy–Africa Summit As Rome Unveils Strategic Partnership Plan

GOOBJOOG NEWS|ADDIS ABABA: Somalia was among the African countries represented at the Italy–Africa Summit, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attending the high-level forum aimed at redefining economic and political ties between Rome and the continent.

The summit, convened by the Italian government, brings together African leaders, senior European officials, and private sector actors to chart a new framework of cooperation centered on investment, development, and long-term stability.

The forum reflects Italy’s evolving policy stance that Africa is not simply a recipient of aid but a strategic partner with vast natural resources, expanding markets, and significant growth potential. Italian officials have emphasized that the new approach seeks to replace short-term assistance with structured economic partnerships built on trade and mutual benefit.

Central to the initiative is the “Mattei Plan for Africa,” a broad strategy named after former Italian energy executive Enrico Mattei. The plan outlines Italy’s intention to support African countries in areas such as economic development, employment generation, reliable energy production, and modern infrastructure, while also addressing the structural causes of poverty, irregular migration, and instability.

Under this framework, Italy aims to position itself as a key European gateway to Africa. African governments, in turn, are encouraged to present investment-ready projects across sectors including energy, agriculture, transport, ports, and industrial development.

The summit places particular focus on trade, investment, renewable and conventional energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and innovation. It serves as a meeting point for political leaders and business executives, facilitating direct engagement between governments and investors.

For Somalia, which faces pressing needs in reconstruction, infrastructure expansion, and job creation, participation offers an opportunity to attract Italian investment, particularly in fisheries, energy, agriculture, and transport infrastructure. The longstanding historical ties between Somalia and Italy may also provide a foundation for expanding economic cooperation under the new initiative.