Togo and eu partnership: ambassador highlights significant growth

As his diplomatic mission in Togo concluded, European Union Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones was received by Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council, this Thursday. The occasion provided the diplomat with an opportunity to deliver a glowing assessment of a partnership he described as having significantly expanded in both scope and influence.

Following his farewell audience, the departing European envoy lauded the substantial broadening of cooperation between Brussels and Lomé during his tenure. This robust partnership now encompasses critical areas such as sustainable development, vital infrastructure, energy initiatives, good governance, educational programs, and enhanced security measures. He explained that his meeting with the Togolese head of state was to engage in dialogue, listen to perspectives, and review the current state of their collaborative efforts.

Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones, representing the European Union in Togo, affirmed that the comprehensive review reflects a considerable strengthening of this pivotal partnership, both in its breadth and its impact.

Surging investment programs

The diplomat underscored the invigorated European investment programs within Togo, describing a portfolio that presents numerous opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors. He believes this momentum is crucial for fostering growth and employment in strategically important sectors such as energy, agriculture, and digital technology.

Security and development: an essential connection

The Ambassador also dedicated attention to the deepening cooperation in peace and security, deeming it an indispensable element of any development project. He highlighted that the European Union has augmented its support for the Togolese armed forces, assisting both in counter-terrorism efforts and in strengthening maritime security across the region.

Gwilym Ceri Jones expressed his appreciation for the excellent relations forged between Togo and the European Union, conveying his confidence that this partnership will continue to deepen and thrive beyond his own mandate.

The DCP 2021-2027: a framework for cooperation

European interventions in Togo are structured within the Joint Multi-annual Programming Document (DCP) 2021-2027, which allocates a substantial portfolio of 201 million euros. This comprehensive framework directs funding towards three primary pillars: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and responsible natural resource management, and consolidating a peaceful and resilient Togolese society built on inclusive governance principles.

A new tripartite mechanism for business

This dynamic cooperation received an additional boost last June with the official launch of a tripartite cooperation mechanism. This initiative brings together the Togolese government, Team Europe, and Eurocham Togo. The permanent consultation framework aims to enhance the attractiveness of the business climate, stimulate European investments, and support the economic reforms undertaken by the Togolese government.

Furthermore, this mechanism is designed to channel cooperation towards more tangible outcomes: creating new employment opportunities, fostering the growth of the private sector, and driving the structural transformation of the Togolese economy. These collective initiatives, as acknowledged by both parties, underscore the enduring strength of a partnership poised for continued success beyond Ambassador Jones’s departure.