Rome: The Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Italy, Cyrille Ganou Badolo, commended the efforts of the Burkinab¨ community in promoting their national culture in Italy, while announcing steps to ease the issuance of Italian visas for Burkinab¨ citizens. She made these remarks during an interview with AIB.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Ambassador Ganou, who has been stationed in Italy since November 2024, reflected positively on her tenure following the presentation of her credentials to Italian President Sergio Mattarella in December 2024. She emphasized the importance of management and teamwork, applauding her colleagues for their dedication to serving Burkina Faso.
The ambassador expressed gratitude to the Burkinabe diaspora in Italy for their role in promoting the national cultural identity. She noted that Burkina Faso is recognized in Italy as a "great nation of culture," attributing this to various cultural events organized by the diaspora. The ambassador highlighted the appreciation Italians have for Burkinabe gastronomy and traditional attire, pointing out that these cultural activities significantly contribute to the country's influence.
Addressing visa-related challenges, Ambassador Ganou acknowledged the difficulties faced by Burkinabe citizens traveling to Italy. Currently, visa procedures are conducted at the Italian embassy in Ivory Coast, which imposes additional costs and constraints. In response, she has initiated discussions with authorities to open an Italian consular service in Ouagadougou or arrange periodic visits by a consular agent to process visa applications locally.
The ambassador welcomed diplomatic progress, noting that diplomatic and service passport holders now enjoy visa exemptions for short stays, under the principle of reciprocity between the two nations. She also highlighted efforts to streamline diplomatic mission expenses by selecting less expensive premises, resulting in significant savings. This initiative has facilitated the acquisition of a ten-story building, set to house offices and accommodation from July 1st.
Ambassador Ganou praised the Burkina Information Agency's work, expressing her intention to visit their stand during the National Culture Week in Bobo-Dioulasso to commend their efforts. She lauded the agency's well-researched and professionally produced articles, recognizing the director general and staff for their contributions.
In conclusion, the ambassador urged Burkinabe citizens of all backgrounds to support national authorities and development efforts, specifically calling for backing of President Comrade Captain Ibrahim Traor©'s actions. She emphasized the importance of unity and individual contributions to Burkina Faso's progress, enhancing its image on the international stage.