Côte d’Ivoire, Malta Seal Strategic Hospitality Pact to Boost Diplomatic and Cultural Ties By Raymond Enoch
In a significant step toward deepening cross-continental cooperation, Côte d’Ivoire and Malta have formalized a new hospitality and diplomatic partnership aimed at strengthening cultural exchange and high-level engagements between Africa and the Mediterranean.
In a press statement released in Żebbuġ, Malta, the Consulate of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta and AX Hotels Ltd — one of Malta’s leading hospitality groups — announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to elevate the quality of diplomatic visits and expand bilateral cultural collaboration.
The agreement, signed on 1 November 2025 by H.E. Mrqs. Anthony C. Coleiro, Honorary Consul of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta, alongside AX Hotels General Managers Mr. Kevin Callus and Mr. Joseph Vella, establishes a framework through which AX Hotels will provide preferential accommodation, discreet VIP services, and tailored event support for Ivorian Presidential, Governmental, Diplomatic, Business, and Cultural delegations visiting Malta.
According to the statement, the partnership also seeks to promote deeper Africa–Europe cultural dialogue, encourage business networking, and reinforce Malta’s growing role as a diplomatic and commercial bridge between the two regions.
“This agreement symbolizes a bridge of cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and Malta—two nations that share a vision of friendship, solidarity, and partnership,” said Honorary Consul Anthony C. Coleiro. “Through this initiative, we are not only facilitating dignified representation for Ivorian delegations but also strengthening cultural and economic ties between Africa and the Mediterranean.”
AX Hotels, known for its luxury properties and international event offerings, welcomed the partnership as an opportunity to support global diplomacy.
“AX Hotels is proud to partner with the Consulate of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta,” said General Manager Kevin Callus. “We view this as an opportunity to contribute to international diplomacy through hospitality, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between our two regions.”
Under the three-year renewable agreement, the partnership will see the Consulate and AX Hotels co-host diplomatic receptions, business forums, cultural exhibitions, and high-level networking events across premier venues such as Rosselli AX Privilege in Valletta, AX The Palace in Sliema, and AX ODYCY in Qawra.
Diplomatic observers note that the collaboration aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s broader foreign policy goal of reinforcing both bilateral and multilateral relationships, while further positioning Malta as a strategic Mediterranean hub for African engagement, mobility, and intercultural dialogue.
The Consulate of Côte d’Ivoire in Malta promotes diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and Malta and ensures the welfare of Ivorian citizens. It plays a vital role in advancing Côte d’Ivoire’s partnerships within Europe and the Mediterranean region.
AX Hotels Ltd a subsidiary of AX Group plc, AX Hotels Ltd is among Malta’s most reputable hospitality brands, known for combining luxury, innovation, and service excellence. The group frequently hosts international conferences, cultural showcases, and diplomatic events.
