The Mattei Plan for Africa, ratified by the Italian Parliament, is intended to aid in developing the African continent, not to colonize it, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Thursday.
In a radio interview, Tajani indicated that the plan is based on a partnership between Italy and African countries to achieve mutual benefits for both parties.
According to the top Italian diplomat, the plan focuses on the energy, infrastructure, health, and education sectors and aims to contribute to combating climate change.
He noted that Italy is initially targeting North African countries and that the plan will be discussed in the upcoming Italian-African summit soon to be held in Rome.
In his interview, Tajani also expressed concern about Russia and China's approach to Africa, which he perceives as a form of new colonialism. He advocated for Africa to be part of a European Marshall Plan.
