A stable and important partner in West Africa Photo: Bundesregierung/Bergmann

Benin is a stable and important partner for Germany in West Africa declared the Chancellor after her meeting with President Yayi. The President is doing everything in his power, "to stamp out corruption in Benin and improve the rule of law," said the Chancellor. Benin has also made good progress on "realising human rights". "These are all reasons why we very much appreciate our development cooperation," said Angela Merkel.

Germany will be endeavouring to expand not only development cooperation, but also economic cooperation with Benin, said the Chancellor. President Yayi expressed an interest in agricultural machinery production in particular, because agriculture is an important mainstay of Benin’s economy.

Thomas Boni Yayi praised the assistance that Germany has given his country over the years. "I would like to thank you, Chancellor, for your willingness to help the African continent," said the President. "We will do all we can to prove that we are worthy of the trust you place in us." He also explained to the Chancellor the efforts his country is making in the fields of infrastructure and education.

Discussion of the situation in Mali

Thomas Boni Yayi was visiting the Federal Chancellery not only in his capacity as President of Benin. He is currently Chairperson of the African Union, and as such "has an important position in terms of what is happening in Mali," explained the Chancellor. Their talks also covered the conflict in Mali and German support to train Mali’s armed forces.

Relations with Benin
The Federal Republic of Germany has maintained diplomatic relations since 1960 with Benin (which was known as Dahomey until 1972). Relations focus primarily on development cooperation. German development cooperation in Benin concentrates on three priority areas: decentralisation and municipal development, water supply and sanitation, and agriculture.