The Government reaffirmed on Monday, June 2, its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the Italian Republic during the official ceremony celebrating Italy’s National Day, held in Maputo.
At the event, the Minister of Planning and Development, Salim Valá, congratulated the Italian people on the occasion, extending greetings to Italian citizens residing in the country, “who share with us the hardworking and dignified endeavor to build an increasingly prosperous Mozambique.”
Historic Cooperation and New Perspectives
In his speech, Salim Valá explained that the diplomatic relationship between Mozambique and Italy dates back to 1976, with a Technical and Scientific Cooperation Agreement signed in 1977, followed by a Framework Cooperation Agreement for Development in 1996, which is currently under review to better address contemporary challenges.
On this occasion, the minister recalled Italy’s historic role during the difficult years of national reconstruction in the 1980s, highlighting the financing of infrastructure such as the Pequenos Libombos and Corrumana dams, and support for higher education, notably the establishment of the Faculty of Architecture at Eduardo Mondlane University.
Another important milestone in bilateral relations was the signing of the Rome Peace Agreements in 1992, with Italy playing a central role in the national peace process.
Economic Partnerships and Private Investment
On the economic front, the minister highlighted the role of Eni, the Italian multinational responsible for the Coral South Project, which positions Mozambique as one of the new exporters of natural gas, contributing to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Valá also revealed the company’s interest in expanding investments with the Coral North Project, estimated at over 448 million meticais (7 million US dollars). Other notable Italian companies mentioned include CMC, Renco, Bonatti, Inalca, Gruppo Leonardo, Messina, and SAIPEM. Salim Valá also praised the involvement of these companies with national Small and Medium Enterprises through local content policies.
New Projects and Territorial Cooperation
Italy continues to be involved in key local development projects, such as the future Agro-Food Center in Manica, part of the Mattei Plan, focusing on increasing agricultural production, promoting employment, and empowering women.
Also highlighted was the presence of Italian civil society organizations and NGOs operating in health, education, environment, and agriculture. The twinning (partnership relations) between the province of Trento and Sofala, and between the region of Reggio Emilia and the city of Pemba, was praised, with the latter recently marking 50 years of decentralized cooperation.
Support in Combating Terrorism and Future Expectations
The Government expressed gratitude for Italy’s support in combating terrorism in Cabo Delgado through the European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique (EUMAM).
Salim Valá further noted that the Assembly of the Republic recently approved the National Development Strategy 2025-2044, which will guide the country’s economic growth over the next two decades, focusing on diversification, autonomy, and increased competitiveness.
The minister expressed anticipation for the visit of the Multisectoral Mission of the Italian Cooperation System, scheduled for the second week of June, during which new legal instruments are expected to be signed, including the update of the Framework Cooperation Agreement.
Source: Diário Económico