Courtesy Audience between the Permanent Secretary and the Ambassador of the European Union

This Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the Permanent Secretary in charge of Foreign Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation,Mr. Sophonie Nitunga, received in audience the Ambassador of the European Union to Burundi, Mrs. Elisabetta Pietrobon, who came to bid him farewell at the end
of her mandate.

During this cordial meeting, the European diplomat expressed her deep gratitude for the hospitality she has enjoyed since her arrival in Burundi. She praisedthe availability and exemplary cooperation of the Ministry and its team, which facilitated and supported the activities of the European Union in the country.

Mrs. Ambassador highlighted the quality of the cooperation relations between Burundi and the European Union, recalling that all necessary facilities had been putin place to enable her institution to effectively carry out its missions. She also announced the upcoming arrival of her successor, whose appointment has alreadybeen approved, expressing the hope that he/she will be welcomed with the same enthusiasm and warmth.

Continuing her remarks, she highlighted the extraordinary potential of Burundi, capable of supporting a dynamic path of sustainable development. She reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to remain a reliable partner, ready to support the country in its major structural projects. She also expressed the wish that, togetherwith her successor, dialogue sessions be organized within the framework of political consultations in order to thoroughly address issues of common interest suchas investment attractiveness, economic recovery, and the preservation of national security. In her view, Africa remains a strategic priority for the European Union.

Taking the floor, Mr. Sophonie Nitunga expressed, on behalf of the Government of Burundi, his sincere gratitude for the cooperation, attentiveness, and dedication
shown by Ambassador Elisabetta Pietrobon during her three-year mission. He assured that the ongoing projects funded by the European Union will continue with the new Head of Mission, an expert in the Global Gateway Program, in full alignment with Burundi’s Vision.
The Permanent Secretary concluded by reaffirming Burundi’s determination to maintain the same pace and momentum in bilateral cooperation, convinced that the results will be even more significant. He assured that the country remains fully ready to work closely with the European Union to consolidate the achievements made and
open up new prospects.