The Italy-Africa Summit is set to commence next Monday in Rome, Italy, with the anticipated participation of 23 leaders and heads of state from Arab and African nations, including Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah.
The Italian news agency "Nova" indicated that the summit, promoted by the Italian PM Georgia Meloni, aims to unveil the "Mattei Plan," designed to launch a new phase of equal and non-colonial cooperation between Rome and African countries.
The initiative, originating from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will take place amidst tight security in Madama Palace, the Senate's headquarters.
Attendance is limited to 160 journalists due to security reasons, as per leaked information from the Chigi Palace (Italian Prime Minister's office).
At least 23 African heads of state and government and 57 international delegations are expected to participate.
The guests will attend a Sunday evening dinner at the Quirinale, along with high-level representatives of regional and multilateral organizations active in Africa, from the World Bank to the International Monetary Fund and UN agencies, as reported by the Italian agency.
High-level officials from Europe, including European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Council President Charles Michel, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will also be present.
The summit will address crucial issues affecting Africa and, consequently, Europe. Topics include climate emergencies, food security, terrorism, migration, and energy transition.
Among the 15 state heads, eight governments, and 11 foreign ministers confirmed so far are representatives from key Italian partners, particularly in the energy sector.
Nova confirmed that participants will include Dbeibah, Tunisian President Kais Saied, Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, and Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf.