As Côte d’Ivoire distances itself from France, the United States has stepped up its presence in the region.
The expulsion of 600 French troops marks a shift in alliances, with the US capitalizing on the opportunity to deepen military, economic, and diplomatic ties.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit in January 2024 marked the first high-level diplomatic mission in over a decade. This visit paved the way for significant developments, including the establishment of a US Commercial Service office and a $300 million regional power compact to enhance Côte d’Ivoire’s role in the West African energy market. 
Côte d’Ivoire as a Regional Investment Hub
Côte d’Ivoire has positioned itself as a key player in francophone West Africa. Its booming economy, with a GDP growth of 6.5% in 2024, has attracted US businesses seeking stable and high-growth markets.
US exports to Côte d’Ivoire reached $501 million in 2022, showcasing a 166% growth over the past decade.
The ease of doing business and initiatives like Prosper Africa are driving American private sector interest in the region. Prosper Africa’s two-year initiative to mobilize $40 million in investments in francophone Africa highlights Côte d’Ivoire as a focal point.
Leveraging the Diaspora for Growth
The African diaspora in the US plays a crucial role in bridging the two nations. Côte d’Ivoire’s selection for the inaugural visit of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement demonstrates its importance.
This initiative aims to channel diaspora influence into ecosystem-building efforts that support Africa’s integration into global capital markets.
As Côte d’Ivoire becomes a beacon for US investments and partnerships, it signals a new era of regional leadership and global economic participation.
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