Europe Cote d'Ivoire

BRUSSELS, 21 May 2025 / PRN Africa / -- The President of the European Council, António Costa, will travel to Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire to receive the UNESCO Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize on 22 May 2025. In the margins of the ceremony, he will also meet the Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara, to discuss bilateral relations, regional stability and preparations for the upcoming EU-African Union summit later this year.

It is a great honour to receive the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize. This is not a reward, but a renewed call for action. In a world marked by instability, inequality and conflict, we must build bridges – not walls – between peoples and nations. Europe and Africa have a shared responsibility to advance peace, protect human rights and uphold the principles of multilateralism. Together, we must be a force for good for future generations.

António Costa, President of the European Council

Named after the first President of Côte d'Ivoire, the UNESCO Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize honours individuals or institutions that have made a significant contribution to the cause of peace. On 7 October 2024, President Costa was awarded this prestigious prize for his continued efforts in promoting peace, dialogue and sustainable development. He will receive the prize during the official ceremony hosted by UNESCO in Abidjan on 22 May.

In a symbolic gesture, President Costa will donate the financial value of the prize to an organisation whose action align with the values of solidarity and dignity that the award represents.

In his talks with President Ouattara, the President will focus on strengthening the EU-Côte d'Ivoire partnership in key areas such as economic development, regional security and democratic governance. The European Union is Côte d'Ivoire's leading economic partner, investor and donor, with support exceeding €2 billion, including through the Global Gateway strategy and dedicated Team Europe initiatives.

The visit highlights the European Union's commitment to a strong and enduring partnership with Côte d'Ivoire and the wider West African region. President Costa will reiterate the EU's commitment to accompanying Côte d'Ivoire in its pursuit of stability, peace and sustainable development.

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SOURCE European Council