The government of Italy unveiled a near US$6 billion plan to support African development at a one-day Italy-Africa summit in Rome last Monday. African Development Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina joined 25 African leaders and European Union officials at the summit.

The summit—which took place as Italy assumes the Presidency of the G7 this month, and a few weeks ahead of the 37^th Ordinary Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa—was one at which Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni called for a new Italian partnership with Africa.

Meloni said: “We believe it is possible to envision and write a new chapter in the history of our relationship, a cooperation among equals, far from any predatory imposition or charitable stance towards Africa. There is a natural inclination for Italy to be a bridge between Africa and Europe. The whole world cannot think about the future without Africa.”

The Italian leader announced various initiatives designed to bolster economic links and create an energy hub for Europe while curbing African emigration to Europe. They included an initial pledge of €5.5 billion (US$5.95 billion) including guarantees.

African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki welcomed the pledged support, while noting that prior consultation with the African continent would have been desirable, particularly when the Mattei Plan was being drafted. He said the plan, nonetheless, aligns with Africa’s priorities.