As his diplomatic mission in Togo draws to a close, European Union Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones was granted a farewell audience with President of the Council Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. The meeting provided the departing diplomat with an opportunity to highlight the remarkable expansion of the partnership between Brussels and Lomé throughout his tenure.
The ambassador emphasized that the cooperation has scaled new heights, extending across critical sectors such as sustainable development, infrastructure, energy, governance, education, and security. His visit served as both a progress review and a platform to engage with the Togolese head of state on ongoing and future initiatives.
ADVERTISING
According to Ambassador Jones, the EU-Togo partnership has not only grown in scope but also in depth, delivering tangible results across multiple fronts. During his final engagement in Lomé, he underscored the strengthened investment programs that have unlocked new opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors.
Booming investment initiatives
European funding has surged across strategic sectors including energy, agriculture, and digital transformation. The ambassador noted that these investments are designed to drive economic growth and create high-value employment opportunities, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between Togolese enterprises and European investors.
Security and prosperity intertwined
The outgoing envoy also highlighted the deepened collaboration in peace and security, which he described as fundamental to sustainable development. European support has intensified for Togolese armed forces, particularly in counterterrorism efforts and maritime security enhancement, reinforcing regional stability.
Framework for future cooperation
European interventions in Togo are structured under the 2021-2027 Joint Multi-Annual Programming Document, backed by a €201 million budget. This framework channels resources into three priority areas: human development and socioeconomic inclusion, sustainable agro-industries, and natural resource management, while promoting inclusive governance to build a resilient society.
A new tripartite partnership for economic growth
The momentum gained further traction in June with the launch of a tripartite cooperation mechanism involving the Togolese government, Team Europe, and Eurocham Togo. This permanent consultation platform aims to enhance the business climate, attract European investments, and support ongoing economic reforms. Its objectives include job creation, private sector development, and structural economic transformation—key pillars that both parties view as essential for the partnership’s continued success beyond Ambassador Jones’ departure.
