<b>Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire 11.07.2017</b> - A US $31 million financing agreement signed between the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the government of Cote D’Ivoire will create thousands of jobs, and provide youth with vocational training. Dr. Bandar Hajjar, signed the agreement on behalf of IsDB; and Cote D’Ivoire was represented by Finance Minister, Mr. Adama Kone. The signing ceremony took place in the capital, Abidjan. <br>
Beneficiaries of the training will be provided with entreprenural skills particualrly in agricultural trade, in addition to the traditional vocational training. The project involves the construction of 42 teaching classes, 32 specialised classes, and four big laboratories. The project will be implemented in Agboville, Bonua, Dabou and Dimbokro. By 2024, the training centres will be graduating 774 students each year.<br>
"I congratulate Cote D’Ivoire for signing this agreement which would help create jobs for the youth. This is part of social economic development. IsDB is committed to supporting its member countries. I hope that this project will become one of the success stories in Cote D’Ivoire, and hopefully it would inspire other IsDB member countries to do the same." Said Dr. Bandar Hajjar, IsDB President. <br>
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr. Adama Kone, Cote D’Ivoire’s Finance Minister stated: “This agreement is very important for the government. It is in line with the strategic vision of the president. Youth are important for the society. The vision of the head of state to transform Cote D’Ivoire into an emerging economy cannot happen without the youth.” Mr. Adama Kone stated. <br>
He added that an important pillar in the vision of his goverbment is ensuring economic transformation. He called on IsDB to continue supporting Cote D’Ivoire, adding that the presence of six ministers during the signing ceremony, shows how important the projects is for the country. <br>
The ministers who were present include Mrs. Kandia Kamara (education), Mr. Amedi Koffi (infrastructure), Mrs. Niale Kaba (planning), and Mr. Amadou Kone (transportation). Cote D’Ivoires Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr. Toure Vazoumana also witnessed the signing ceremony.<br>