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Med-Or Visits Djibouti, Discusses Regional Dynamics and Connectivity
The Med-Or Italian Foundation for Africa was received by the Minister of Finance and Planning of Djibouti, H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh
The Executive Director of the Med-Or Italian Foundation for Africa, Mr. Umberto Tavolato, visited Djibouti to meet with the Minister of Finance and Planning, H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, for high-level discussions on regional dynamics, geoeconomic developments, and strategic infrastructure cooperation.
Located at the crossroads of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, Djibouti occupies a uniquely strategic position along one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors. The strait, approximately 25 kilometers wide, connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a critical gateway for global trade. It is estimated that around 10–12% of global trade and nearly one-third of global container traffic passes through this route, linking European and Asian markets.
Recent geopolitical developments have further underscored the importance of this corridor. With heightened instability affecting the Strait of Hormuz, traffic through the Bab-el-Mandeb has gained renewed relevance. Despite security concerns, including potential disruptions linked to regional tensions, the route has remained operational. Saudi Arabia has already redirected approximately 7 million barrels of oil per day through its East-West pipeline to the Red Sea, with plans to further invest in alternative trade routes to reduce dependence on Hormuz.
Against this backdrop, discussions focused on how the Horn of Africa can best leverage its geostrategic position to drive sustainable development. While the region continues to face inter-state rivalries and ongoing conflicts, both parties emphasized the importance of advancing economic cooperation without delay. In particular, the dialogue highlighted the need to prioritize transformative infrastructure initiatives capable of fostering regional integration and creating incentives for long-term stability.
The meeting also explored opportunities in the underwater domain, a sector in which Italian industry possesses globally recognized expertise. Particular attention was given to the development of feasibility studies, knowledge transfer, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening local capabilities and supporting Djibouti’s role as a regional hub for maritime and digital connectivity.
The Med-Or Italian Foundation reaffirms its commitment to promoting dialogue, innovation, and partnerships that contribute to peace, resilience, and shared prosperity across Africa and the broader Mediterranean region.
