(L-R) Xavier Bettel, Luxembourg's Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs; Téné Birahima Ouattar, Côte d'Ivoire's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence;
Credit: MAE
On Monday 9 November 2026, Luxembourg's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Xavier Bettel, paid a working visit to Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, where he held official meetings and led an economic delegation of Luxembourg companies.
During the visit, Minister Bettel met with Côte d'Ivoire's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Téné Birahima Ouattara, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Nialé Kaba and Minister of Trade, Industry and Crafts Kalil Konaté.
According to Luxembourg’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, the discussions focused on strengthening political and economic relations between Luxembourg and Côte d'Ivoire, including opportunities to support local economic development, industrial transformation and value creation.
The ministry further said that both countries share a commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law and respect for international law. It also highlighted Côte d'Ivoire's role in maintaining regional stability amid ongoing security challenges.
As part of the visit, Minister Bettel led an economic mission organised in collaboration with the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, bringing together representatives of Luxembourg companies.
The mission explored opportunities for cooperation in sectors including digital technologies, construction and industrial processing. The ministry noted that several Luxembourg businesses already operate in Côte d'Ivoire.
During his meetings, Minister Bettel also highlighted Luxembourg's position as a gateway to the European market.
The visit included celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the Belgian and Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Côte d'Ivoire, which promotes economic relations between the three countries.
During his trip, Minister Bettel also visited the Port of Abidjan, described by the ministry as West Africa's leading port and a major contributor to Côte d'Ivoire's economy.
