Italy has announced an investment of over $300 million (19 billion meticais) in active cooperation projects in Mozambique, demonstrating its support for the new Government’s ongoing reforms aimed at boosting the national economy.
The commitment was made by Italy’s ambassador to Maputo, Gabriele Annis, who revealed that in Manica province alone, $110 million (6.9 billion meticais) are planned to boost the agricultural sector. Of this amount, approximately $42 million (2.6 billion meticais) will be allocated to the creation of an agri-food center in Chimoio, the provincial capital, with the goal of transforming local agriculture into an industrial-scale activity.
“We have a significant portfolio of ongoing projects in Mozambique and we believe in the country’s potential. Italy stands in solidarity with the Mozambican Government and business sector so that we can grow together,” said the ambassador following a meeting with President Daniel Chapo.
The Italian delegation, led by Riccardo Guariglia, Secretary-General of Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also met with Mozambican authorities to deepen cooperation in areas such as health, education, food security, and digitalization.
Riccardo Guariglia emphasized that “strengthening these sectors can help improve the lives of thousands of people in Mozambique.”
The Mozambican Government, in turn, expressed “great expectations” regarding the outcomes of the meeting, hoping it will strengthen bilateral relations and boost industrial and trade cooperation.
According to the Minister of State Administration and Public Service, Inocêncio Impissa, the Italian visit reinforces the “friendship and solidarity” between the two countries, especially at a time when other nations are reducing or suspending their support.
“Italy proves to be a true partner Mozambique can rely on, especially in the most difficult times,” he added.
Source: Lusa
