ROME (CHATNEWSTV) — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni acknowledged Monday that decades of Western exploitation have fractured trust across Africa, calling for a fundamental shift in Europe’s relationship with the continent.
In remarks tied to her government’s proposed “Mattei Plan” for Africa, Meloni said European nations have too often acted with “arrogance,” focusing on short-term gain rather than genuine partnerships.
“It is a new approach: not predatory, not paternalistic, not charitable, but not even based on mere aid,” Meloni said. “We want to work as equals, to grow together.”
Meloni described past policies as “predatory” and “paternalistic,” admitting that such actions have fostered deep skepticism among African countries. To move forward, she said, Europe must abandon outdated models of charity and control.
The Mattei Plan, named after Italian energy executive Enrico Mattei, is being pitched as a framework for equal cooperation and sustainable development.
“Europe has approached Africa in the past with a mindset that was more about taking than giving,” Meloni said. “That must change.”
Her remarks reflect a broader EU effort to counter criticism of exploitative trade and investment practices on the continent, as well as growing influence from rival powers such as China and Russia.
