European union ambassador reflects on a ‘strongly growing’ Togo partnership

As his diplomatic assignment in Togo drew to a close, European Union Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones met with President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé this Thursday. The occasion provided the diplomat with an opportunity to deliver a glowing assessment of the *Togo EU partnership*, which he described as having significantly expanded in both scale and influence.

Following his farewell audience, the European ambassador lauded the substantial broadening of collaboration between Brussels and Lomé during his tenure. This robust partnership now extends across vital areas including sustainable development, crucial infrastructure, energy initiatives, strong governance, education, and enhanced security. Ambassador Jones explained that his meeting with the Togolese head of state was an opportunity for dialogue, to hear his insights, and to review the progress of their ongoing cooperation.

According to Gwilym Ceri Jones, the European Union Ambassador to Togo, the outcome of his mission is a testament to the considerable reinforcement of this partnership, both in its scope and its impact.

thriving investment programs

The diplomat highlighted the significant strengthening of European investment programs in Togo, noting a portfolio that presents numerous opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors. He emphasized that this dynamic is set to bolster growth and employment in what are considered strategic sectors, including energy, agriculture, and the digital economy.

security and development: an inseparable link

Ambassador Jones also focused on the deepening cooperation in peace and security, an area he deems fundamental to any development initiative. He reiterated that the European Union has intensified its support for the Togolese armed forces, assisting both in counter-terrorism efforts and in strengthening maritime security.

Gwilym Ceri Jones additionally commended the high quality of relations established between Togo and the European Union. He expressed confidence in the continued advancement and deepening of this partnership, even beyond his own mandate.

the dcp 2021-2027: a cooperation framework

European Union interventions in Togo are meticulously structured within the Joint Multi-annual Programming Document (DCP) 2021-2027, which boasts a substantial portfolio of 201 million euros. This overarching framework directs funding towards three pivotal areas: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and judicious natural resource management, and solidifying a peaceful and resilient Togolese society founded on inclusive governance.

a new tripartite mechanism for business

This cooperative dynamic gained further momentum last June with the official launch of a tripartite cooperation mechanism. This initiative unites the Togolese government, Team Europe, and Eurocham Togo. This permanent consultative framework is designed to enhance the attractiveness of the business climate, catalyze European investments, and support the economic reforms actively implemented by the Togolese government.

The mechanism is also set to channel cooperation towards more concrete results, including robust job creation, dynamic private sector development, and the structural transformation of the Togolese economy. These collective initiatives, as acknowledged by both parties, powerfully demonstrate the enduring strength of a *Togo EU partnership* poised for continued success even after Ambassador Jones’s departure.