A Project born in 2020
Rome, 1st April 2025
In 2020, Easy Diplomacy embarked on a special project with the Embassy of Ivory Coast to the Holy See, an initiative that has proven crucial in giving visibility to one of Africa’s most important and fascinating destinations: the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, and more broadly, to the Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast: Economy and Beauty
Formerly a French colony since 1893, Ivory Coast gained its independence on August 7, 1960, with Félix Houphouët-Boigny as its first President. Today, the Ivory Coast is one of the most dynamic economies in West Africa, the world’s leading producer of cocoa, and boasts significant economic growth.
The Country is also renowned for its extraordinary natural and cultural Beauty. From its long beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean to its lush tropical forests, Ivory Coast offers breathtaking landscapes. Cities like Abidjan represent a fusion of modernity and history, while the country’s ethnic diversity is reflected in its music, art, and local cuisine. Iconic sites like the Basilica of Notre Dame de La Paix symbolize the deep spirituality of the Ivorian people.
In summary, Ivory Coast is a key reference in West Africa, combining significant economic growth with a rich cultural and natural heritage.
Diplomatic Relations with Italy
Diplomatic relations between Italy and Ivory Coast began in 1961, laying the foundation for a long-lasting and multifaceted cooperation. These bilateral relations span various areas, from political and economic collaboration to cultural exchange and sustainable development.
A significant turning point occurred in November 2012 when Ivorian President Alassane OUATTARA visited Italy, marking a phase of renewed vitality in the relationship between the two Countries.
An additional strengthening occurred recently, in April, 2024, when Italian President Sergio MATTARELLA made the first historic official visit of an Italian Head of State to Ivory Coast. During this trip, President Mattarella met with the highest Ivorian authorities and visited several sites with the Italian presence, demonstrating the excellent state of bilateral relations and the desire to further strengthen ties between the two nations.
Our Commitment: to create a New Destination
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Basilica’s consecration, in collaboration with the Embassy of Ivory Coast to the Vatican and the Ivorian Ministry of Tourism and Leisure, we launched an ambitious project to promote this iconic monument as a new destination for religious and cultural tourism. Our goal was to create a pathway connecting Italy, the heart of Catholic faith, with Ivory Coast through specially designed itineraries for pilgrims. The first steps were taken with the organization of an exploratory tour (Fam Trip) in synergy with a major Spanish tour operator, held from March 2 to 7 of the same year. During this trip, we identified the most important and attractive sites in the country, aiming to enhance Ivory Coast’s natural, historical, and cultural beauty while integrating the spiritual experience of pilgrimage.
This led to the creation of the first cultural-religious tourism product from Spain and Europe to Ivory Coast.
A Project that has grown over time, integrating the country’s diverse attractions and developing a tailored strategy to promote this new tourist destination, highlighting its strengths in the identified target markets.
A New Chapter: the return after years
After several years, Easy Diplomacy is ready to relaunch this valuable Project, aimed at strengthening the ties between the two countries and creating new opportunities for Tourism. Despite the temporary halt caused by the pandemic, the value of the project remains intact. With an ambitious program, we are ready to consolidate what has been achieved so far and open new perspectives for tourism, bringing Ivory Coast’s beauty and spirituality to an international audience.
Notre Dame de La Paix will become a symbol of global peace and spirituality, and it will be here that our commitment to a future of dialogue and prosperity will resonate.
