During the Eurosatory 2026 international defense exhibition in Paris, Téné Birahima Ouattara, Ivory Coast’s Vice-Premier Minister and Defense Minister, held a high-level meeting with Sébastien Lecornu, France’s Prime Minister. This landmark gathering signals a fresh chapter in the long-standing strategic partnership between Abidjan and Paris.

The discussions between the two leaders focused on reinforcing cooperation across multiple sectors, with a strong emphasis on strengthening the decades-old alliance between Ivory Coast and France. Both officials reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing a relationship built on mutual trust, open dialogue, and tangible benefits for both nations.

During the meeting, they conducted a thorough review of key bilateral agendas, particularly in defense, security, and capacity-building. The leaders also explored innovative avenues for collaboration to address pressing security challenges facing both countries today—and in the future—while contributing to broader regional stability.

This encounter holds special significance as it marks the first official meeting between Téné Birahima Ouattara and Sébastien Lecornu in their respective roles. Yet, it also reflects the continuity of a relationship built on years of mutual trust and effective collaboration. The two officials have developed strong working ties, enabling direct and constructive exchanges on critical strategic matters.