ABIDJAN, CÔTE D’IVOIRE – The United States is signaling a robust, forward-looking commitment to West Africa, with President Donald J. Trump designating a high-level delegation, led by Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, Jacob Helberg, to the December 8, 2025, inauguration of Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara.
The choice of Mr. Helberg, who is formally the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment and an advisor with deep expertise in technology and economic competition, underscores Washington’s intent to focus the partnership on modern economic security and technological cooperation
Prosperity through Technology
According to a press release from the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, Under Secretary Helberg stated that Côte d’Ivoire’s “consistent economic progress and its leadership in West Africa make it an essential partner for the United States.” His attendance is framed as a clear sign of U.S. commitment to advancing “economic prosperity driven by key technology sectors” and promoting security.
Mr. Helberg’s background as a commissioner on the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, and a key voice in policy regarding artificial intelligence and supply chain security, suggests the U.S. views the relationship as crucial to its broader strategy in Africa.
The U.S. aims to ensure that Côte d’Ivoire, with its dynamic economy and growing digital sector, has access to trusted technology partners.
Investment and Shared Security
The delegation’s mandate goes beyond diplomacy.
They are scheduled to visit infrastructure projects that showcase the “concrete benefits” of the U.S.-Ivorian partnership and will meet with representatives of American companies already operating in the country.
This reflects the U.S. strategy of leveraging private-sector investment to foster sustainable growth.
Ambassador Jessica Davis Ba, herself a seasoned diplomat with a background in crisis management and security across Africa and the Middle East, reinforced the commitment to a multi-faceted partnership.
“Our partnership opens up genuine opportunities to strengthen reciprocal trade and investments that create jobs in both our countries,” Ambassador Davis Ba said.
She added that the U.S. is determined to work alongside Côte d’Ivoire to fight terrorism and illegal immigration, develop trade, and stimulate innovation.
The presence of a senior official from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) directly ties the economic and technology focus to the urgent need for regional security, particularly against the backdrop of rising instability and extremist groups along the country’s northern border.
The delegation’s presence on the eve of the inauguration underscores the strategic importance of the U.S. alliance with Abidjan as President Ouattara begins his next term.
