The path of diplomacy: Officials focus on strengthening regional and global integration
Côte d’Ivoire is exploring new friendships, in addition to its traditionally close alignment with France and the West. While the years of conflict chipped away at the country’s regional influence and international diplomatic ties, today Côte d’Ivoire is a crucial member of the regional security infrastructure, notably in opposing the threat of extremism in the Sahel. French Connection In its post-independence years Côte d’Ivoire retained warm relations with France. Indeed, during the long rule of former President Felix Houphouët-Boigny Côte d’Ivoire has been deeply involved in the francophone world culturally, socially and economically by maintaining the CFA franc and French advisors. The country’s security infrastructure