Comoros seeks $4.6 billion in investment to climb out of poverty

Comoros' President Azali Assoumani said he is looking to raise 4.2 billion euros ($4.63 billion) at an investment conference this week as he seeks to consolidate political stability and improve the economy ahead of elections next year.

The Indian ocean archipelago is one of the world's poorest countries, with a population of just 800,000 people who rely on the export of ylang ylang, a key ingredient for perfumes, vanilla and cloves - all of which are prone to price swings.

With a history of assassinations, mercenary invasions and some 20 coups or attempted rebellions since independence from France in 1975, Comoros has been known for its political instability - which many locals blame on continued interference by the French. Located between Mozambique and Madagascar, Comoros has been more stable in recent years, but Assoumani's re-election in March came amid allegations of vote-rigging.