Burkina Faso-United Arab Emirates/ Bilateral Diplomacy: Strengthening Relations

As part of bilateral diplomacy, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso, Her Excellency Madame Olivia Rouamba, conducted an official visit to the United Arab Emirates from July 11th to 13th, 2023. This visit aims to enhance cooperation between the two countries in humanitarian, security, and development fields.

Minister Rouamba carried a message from the Head of State of Burkina Faso, President of the Transition, His Excellency Captain Ibrahim Traoré, to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates.

During her discussions with her Emirati counterpart, His Excellency Mr. Sheikh Shakhbout Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister Rouamba outlined the current situation in Burkina Faso, as well as the efforts undertaken by the Transitional government to secure and restore the territory.

 She advocated for extensive support and assistance from the United Arab Emirates.

The Emirati Minister of State took note of the situation in Burkina Faso and affirmed that the country holds an important position among the priority countries for the United Arab Emirates.

 He expressed his country’s willingness to support Burkina Faso in humanitarian and security aspects, and mentioned encouraging prospects for cooperation in development.

To strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, Minister Rouamba submitted a request for the accreditation of a Burkina Faso ambassador to the United Arab Emirates.

This demonstrates the commitment of the Burkinabe authorities to work closely with the United Arab Emirates.

During this visit, Minister Rouamba also held working meetings with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) as well as Emirati companies specializing in renewable energy and defense.

The ADFD, which aims to support the sustainable economic growth of developing countries, pledged to undertake three social projects in Burkina Faso, worth 50 billion FCFA.

This official visit to the United Arab Emirates marks an important milestone in strengthening relations between Burkina Faso and this gulf State.

 It paves the way for closer cooperation in humanitarian, security, and development areas, and demonstrates the commitment of both countries to work together in promoting peace and sustainable development.

Neil Camara