African and European Leaders Strengthen Partnership at 7th AU-EU Summit in Angola

African and European leaders committed to enhancing cooperation on peace, trade, infrastructure development, and climate resilience following the conclusion of the 7th African Union (AU)-European Union (EU) Summit in Angola on Tuesday. The two-day summit, themed “Promoting peace and prosperity through effective multilateralism,” was co-chaired by Angolan President João Lourenço and European Council President António Costa and marked the 25th anniversary of the AU-EU partnership. Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane attended alongside other heads of states and governments.

The summit communique highlighted a joint declaration reaffirming support for multilateralism, international law, and collective action to address global crises. Leaders focused on conflict zones across Africa and the Middle East, expressing deep concern over the escalating war in Sudan. The communique condemned atrocities committed in El-Fasher and supported an AU-IGAD-led peace process to achieve a Sudanese-owned political transition. Leaders also pledged continued support for peace efforts in South Sudan, where fragile governance has hindered progress.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, leaders reaffirmed commitment to implementing UN Security Council resolutions and AU-led mediation amid ongoing violence in the eastern regions. They stressed the need for lasting peace in Somalia and the Sahel, which face persistent insurgencies and humanitarian crises. The summit also called for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict in the occupied Palestinian Territory, emphasizing humanitarian access and renewed political dialogue.

Economic cooperation featured prominently, with leaders promoting the Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment Package, which mobilizes public and private funds for infrastructure, energy, and digital connectivity. The expansion of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development into Africa was welcomed, along with continued support for the African Continental Free Trade Area to boost regional integration and diversify exports. Leaders also highlighted the importance of debt relief and reform of the international financial architecture to improve transparency, reduce borrowing costs, and strengthen fiscal resilience for African states.

Sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate-resilient agricultural and transport systems were emphasized, including the development of the Lobito corridor under the AU’s Agenda 2063. Since the first Europe–Africa summit in Cairo in 2000, AU-EU summits have provided a key political framework for the partnership. The 7th summit builds on the 6th AU-EU summit in Brussels in February 2022, which adopted a Joint Vision for 2030 centered on peace, security, and sustainable development.

The 8th AU-EU Summit is scheduled in Brussels, where leaders will review progress and define future priorities for continued collaboration between Africa and Europe.