Airbus Defence and Space and the Government of the Côte d’Ivoire have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the French-headquartered company to help develop an aerospace sector in the African country that was once a French colony.
Under the terms of the MoU, Airbus and the government of Côte d’Ivoire will explore channels of cooperation to develop Côte d’Ivoire’s aerospace sector in various areas. The development of the country’s aerospace industry has been identified as strategic for its economic development.
“We are confident that this partnership with Airbus will contribute to Côte d’Ivoire’s economic growth as well as support us build a stronger framework for industrial development, creation of jobs and capacity building for our country,” said H.E. Daniel Kablan Duncan, Vice President of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. “We are committed to deliver on our vision and make Côte d’Ivoire a hub for aerospace technology in Africa.”
“Collaboration between the public and private sector is essential to facilitate economic and industrial growth,” said Guillaume Faury, President Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “Through this MoU, we will work closely with Côte d’Ivoire’s government, share expertise, discuss opportunities and support efforts in building a robust and sustainable aerospace sector.”
“At Airbus, we are committed to supporting the sustainable socioeconomic development of Africa through partnerships such as this,” Faury concluded.
The MoU was signed on 15 June 2018 by His Excellency Amadou Koné, Minister of Transport of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and Mikail Houari, President Airbus Africa Middle East. Both Duncan and Faury were present at the signing.
