The European Union’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas declared Wednesday that Africa can rely on EU as the Block and African Union wrapped up a high-level ministerial meeting in Brussels, reaffirming a growing alliance marked by security cooperation, investment, and shared multilateral priorities.
Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, co-chaired the meeting alongside African Union ministers in a show of what she described as “true Team Europe spirit.” She emphasized the “lively shared commitment” between both continents, highlighting the attendance of more than 70 delegations, including over 50 ministers.
“Our partnership has delivered concrete results over the past 25 years,” she said during a press briefing. “We’re not just talking — we’re delivering. From peace operations to infrastructure, the EU remains Africa’s first and closest cooperation partner.”
Kallas announced that over €150 billion in investment has been mobilized under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, aimed at boosting infrastructure, digital access, and green transitions across the continent.
€1 Billion for Peace, but Questions Remain
In terms of security, the EU’s support for Africa through the European Peace Facility exceeds €1 billion, with more than half of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions operating on the continent.
“We’ve delivered drones, surveillance aircraft, maritime equipment — and we continue to advocate for predictable UN funding for AU-led operations,” Kallas said.
However, when asked whether European nations ramping up their own military spending in response to Russian aggression might divert resources away from African security aid, Kallas responded cautiously.
“Can I predict the future right now? I cannot,” she said, noting that discussions on the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) post-2028 are still ongoing.
Migration, Raw Materials, and the Roots of Displacement
Addressing persistent migration flows from Africa to Europe, Kallas acknowledged the EU’s role in tackling both “the consequences and the causes” of migration.
“People don’t want to leave their homes unless they have to. If they have jobs and stability, they will stay,” she said. “That’s why we’re talking about investments, access to capital, and technology transfers — so prosperity stays in Africa.”
Pressed by an African journalist on overfishing and its impact on coastal livelihoods, Kallas conceded the issue had not been discussed directly but emphasized the need for sustainable partnerships that “create jobs and prosperity” in Africa.
Disinformation and Russia’s Influence
Kallas also addressed growing concerns about Russian disinformation campaigns on the African continent, acknowledging they were part of a broader “fight of narratives.”
“Russia is using disinformation as a tool, especially in Africa,” she said. “We must fight these lies. As Churchill once said: ‘A lie is halfway across the world before the truth gets its pants on.’ In the information age, this is truer than ever.”
She confirmed that multiple delegations raised the issue during the talks and agreed it remains a pressing threat to Africa-EU relations.
Gaza and Sudan: Europe Walks Diplomatic Tightrope
Kallas condemned an incident earlier Tuesday in Jenin, where Israeli forces reportedly fired warning shots at a group of EU diplomats visiting a refugee camp.
“We call on Israel to investigate this incident and hold accountable those responsible,” she said. “Israel has obligations under the Vienna Convention to ensure the safety of foreign diplomats.”
When asked if the AU pushed the EU to take a firmer stance on the war in Gaza, Kallas said, “We recognize the horrific attacks of October 7. We’ve condemned Hamas. But we’ve also been clear: humanitarian law must be followed. Civilians must be spared.”
She reiterated the EU’s call to unblock humanitarian aid to Gaza, stating, “Aid trucks funded by EU taxpayers are stuck. This must stop.”
On Sudan and the Sahel, Kallas emphasized the EU’s support for African-led mediation and announced discussions for a new Sahel strategy led by the recently appointed EU Special Representative.
“Our first priority is a cessation of hostilities. People are suffering,” she said. “We must listen to African voices on the ground.”
Editor: Gabriel Ani
