“The presence of Côte d'Ivoire in Expo Milano 2015 testifies to the friendship between our country and Italy, and our shared belief in solidarity and the broadest possible distribution of resources for the whole planet”. With these words the President of the Côte d'Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, officially opened the celebrations of his country’s National Day. The official delegation was greeted by a festive crowd of compatriots, delighted to participate in such an important occasion for their nation.
“I’d like to congratulate the organizers of the Universal Exhibition for the way they have rewarded the good practices of participating countries", continued President Ouattara. "The Côte d'Ivoire produces 40 percent of the world’s cocoa, we export coconuts and peanuts, and we are Africa’s top producer of palm oil, bananas and pineapples. The country’s commitment to sustainable food continues to produce excellent results," he said, explaining that “Over the years we have implemented important reforms to benefit agriculture, from the cocoa production system to the cultivation of fruit and vegetable crops. Between 2012 and 2015 we invested 3 billion Euros, and agricultural production rose from 12 million tons to 16 million in 2014… an increase of 33 percent. The quantity of rice products almost tripled. This is a clear of example of the Côte d'Ivoire doing its part in ‘feeding the planet’”.
