(Business in Cameroon) - Speaking at the end of his face-to-face meeting with his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella, on 20 March in Rome, the Cameroonian Head of State declared having broached, with the Italian President, the current situation in the North-West and South-West regions, affected by secessionist demands for some months now.

“We have also mentioned the situation in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon. I have assured him of the commitment of the majority of Cameroonians to peace in our country”, declared President Biya. Before specifying: “Our people is attached to two fundamental principles: unity and diversity of the nation. Inscribed in our constitution, they have a tangible value. My government remains open to any dialogue which does not however question the unity and diversity of the country”.

Aside from the situation which is still tensed in the Anglophone areas of Cameroon, the Cameroonian Head of State also talked about the fight against the Islamist sect Boko Haram, in which the Cameroonian army has been involved for several months now. “This obscurantist sect, despite its current weakening, remains dangerous. I have reiterated to the President our gratitude for the support that Italy has given us and continues to give us in this fight. I seize this opportunity to sincerely thank all the other countries and international organisations who have also supported us. This support enables us to face many security, economic, and humanitarian challenges”, said President Biya.

BRM