Choiseul Africa Summit I Paris 2016

Second Choiseul Africa Summit in Paris

On June 2 and 3, 2016, leading figures from Africa and France came together to explore strategic opportunities and establish lasting alliances. This event, following on from the success of the 2015 editions in Paris and Marrakech, reinforced the vision of a partnership based on mutual exchange and concrete action.

In a geopolitical context marked by an intensification of Franco-African relations, notably under the impetus of French economic diplomacy, this Summit addressed crucial themes such as innovation, investment and leadership, with a particular focus on growth sectors. The presence of visionary African leaders and top French officials, including Emmanuel Macron, then Minister of the Economy, and Manuel Valls, then Prime Minister of the Republic, illustrated the mutual commitment to building concrete solutions to contemporary challenges.

Turning challenges into opportunities

Discussions highlighted key issues: how can French expertise in strategic sectors such as energy, digital and infrastructure support sustainable economic transformation in Africa? By integrating circular economy models and impact initiatives, discussions highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in structuring projects tailored to local challenges. In addition, inspiring leaders such as Bridgette Gasa (The Helilox Group) and Sébastien Kadio-Morokro (Petroivoire) shared their experiences, illustrating the importance of valuing youth and entrepreneurship as drivers of African dynamism, while consolidating ecosystems conducive to the development of talent.