In its 2021-2025 government work program, Côte d'Ivoire has committed to expanding its diplomatic network. The Ivorian authorities desired Côte d'Ivoire's presence in the Pacific-Oceania region. As a result, the first embassy was opened in Australia, a neighboring country to New Zealand. This policy aims to attract numerous foreign investors, penetrate new markets to strengthen trade exchanges, and access new financial markets.
In this context, the President of the Republic, H.E. Alassane OUATTARA, granted an audience to Mr. John KEY, Prime Minister of New Zealand, during the United Nations General Assembly in September 2013. However, prior to this audience, a New Zealand envoy had been dispatched to the President of the Republic in April 2013 to seek Côte d'Ivoire's support for New Zealand's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2015-2016 period.
These high-level meetings aim to enhance exchanges and bilateral relations between the two countries and demonstrate the desire for New Zealand's cooperation with French-speaking African countries.
New Zealand's exports to Africa increased until 2014, with Africa receiving 9% of New Zealand's dairy exports. In addition to exports, various New Zealand companies are successfully exploring service opportunities in Africa, particularly in education, software and mobile technologies, and agriculture.
Furthermore, New Zealand has established an aid program for Africa. This Aid Program emphasizes encouraging sustainable economic development. Although its influence is limited, it is appreciated. Through this program, the New Zealand Government remains committed to supporting developing countries, reducing poverty, and making tangible improvements in people's lives. It covers four areas: agriculture, renewable energy, business, education, and training.
Moreover, New Zealand regularly contributes to humanitarian aid programs. More recently, this aid included personnel and funds supporting UN actions against the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone. Other recent contributions include humanitarian aid in the Central African Republic, emergency food aid, support for livelihoods, and funding for United Nations special funds created to support African Union missions in Somalia and the Central African Republic.
Agricultural products are the main export source of New Zealand. However, it also exports dairy products, meat, timber, fruits, fish products, gas, oil, and coal.
