SEOUL — Bénin’s foreign minister Corinne Amori Brunet has positioned the West African nation as a stable gateway to Africa’s vast regional market during a high-profile meeting in Seoul, where she outlined the country’s economic advantages for South Korean businesses.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Forum, Brunet emphasized that while Bénin may appear small in isolation, its true value lies in its strategic advantages rather than natural resources. «Bénin may seem like a small market at first glance, but its real strength comes from stability, investor-friendly policies, and its prime location,» she explained.

The minister highlighted the country’s dual membership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), which makes it a key maritime and logistics hub for West Africa. «Our focus isn’t on discovering critical minerals—though geological studies may reveal them in the future. Today, our priority is attracting businesses that can leverage the entire regional market,» she added.

Brunet expressed optimism about deepening cooperation with South Korea, particularly in industrial development, investment, and cultural exchanges. «Both our nations have transformed through discipline and reform. Bénin has made remarkable progress over the past decade under President Romuald Wadagni’s leadership,» she noted.

She pointed to recent infrastructure upgrades, including the modernized Port of Cotonou—Bénin’s largest commercial gateway—which now supports smart logistics and digital customs processing. The minister also cited the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone and the country’s digitalized administrative systems as key reforms designed to attract foreign investment.

The June 1 forum marked a pivotal moment following the 2024 Korea-Africa summit, according to Brunet. «This gathering is about turning past commitments into tangible projects,» she said. «We’re not just talking about trade—we’re building partnerships that benefit both sides.»

Cultural diplomacy also featured in her agenda. Brunet referenced Bénin’s efforts to reclaim 26 looted artifacts returned from France in 2021 and proposed hosting a traveling exhibition in Seoul to showcase these cultural treasures. «We share a common story with South Korea—both nations have rewritten our destinies through vision and hard work,» she concluded.

Appointed last month, Brunet is making her first official overseas trip as foreign minister.