India and Cote d’Ivoire recently engaged in talks to bolster defense collaboration and enhance the capabilities of the Ivory Coast Air Force. The meeting between Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Major General Koffi N’Guessan Alfred, Chief of Air Staff of the Cote d’Ivoire Air Force, centered on exploring avenues for cooperation and strengthening ties to boost the Air Force’s capabilities. The discussions underscored a mutual commitment to deepening bilateral defense relations.
Major General Koffi N’Guessan Alfred, during his visit, paid respects at the National War Memorial in India, honoring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers. He expressed profound respect and solidarity on behalf of the Ivorian Air Force and the Armed Forces of Cote d’Ivoire, emphasizing the importance of preserving the memory of those who served and sacrificed for their nations. The visit aimed to strengthen the camaraderie between the Indian Air Force and the Ivorian Air Force.
In a separate engagement, Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary (Central and West Africa) in the Ministry of External Affairs, met with Djibril Ouattara, Cote d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation. The discussions revolved around India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, including UPI and Aadhaar, with a focus on potential bilateral cooperation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. The Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation expressed interest in leveraging India’s digital advancements and implementing similar solutions in Côte d’Ivoire.
