The French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Attractiveness, Nicolas Forissier, has advocated for stronger economic partnerships between France and Cameroon. He made this statement during his visit to Yaoundé, on the occasion of the Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Forissier emphasized the importance of this visit, calling it a significant step in the economic dialogue between the two countries. He highlighted the dynamism of bilateral economic exchanges and France's commitment to promoting open, fair, and rule-based international trade. In a global context marked by geopolitical tensions, economic changes, and environmental and digital challenges, strengthening these partnerships is seen as an increasing necessity.
The Franco-Cameroonian economic relationship is based on a long history and an active business network. More than 200 French companies are present in Cameroon, contributing to the creation of approximately 20,000 direct jobs and the development of local skills, as well as infrastructure projects such as the Nachtigal dam. Through the Agence Française de Développement, France has invested over 2 billion euros (1300 billion FCFA) in Cameroon since 2008 in various sectors such as energy, transport, agro-industry, and urban infrastructure.
Looking ahead, France aims to promote reciprocal investments and partnerships between French and Cameroonian companies. Forissier stressed the need to improve the business climate to attract more investment, support innovation, and diversify the Cameroonian economy. He also emphasized the importance of protecting investors and ensuring the sustainability of projects. Forissier's visit comes ahead of the Africa-France "Africa Forward" Summit, scheduled to take place in Nairobi in May, where economic relations between France and Africa will be central to discussions.
Cameroon, with its strategic location, dynamic market, natural resources, and human capital, has considerable assets. France has expressed its readiness to support Cameroon in pursuing reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and legal certainty, which are key factors in maintaining the country's attractiveness.
