Togo and european union partnership: significant growth hailed as ambassador jones concludes mission

As his diplomatic tenure in Togo drew to a close, European Union Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones was received by President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé this Thursday. The occasion provided an opportunity for the diplomat to offer a glowing assessment of a partnership he describes as having substantially expanded in both scope and impact.

Following his farewell audience, the departing European Ambassador lauded the significant broadening of the partnership between Brussels and Lomé during his mission. This enhanced cooperation now extends across crucial sectors including sustainable development, essential infrastructure, energy, effective governance, education, and national security. He explained that his visit aimed to engage with the Togolese Head of State, listen to his perspectives, and provide a comprehensive overview of the ongoing collaboration.

Gwilym Ceri Jones, the European Union’s Ambassador to Togo, affirmed that his assessment reveals a remarkable strengthening of this vital partnership, evidenced by its increased breadth and depth.

Expanding investment programs in Togo

The diplomat underscored the significant reinforcement of European investment programs within Togo, highlighting a robust portfolio that presents numerous opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors. This dynamic, he stated, is designed to bolster economic growth and job creation in strategically important sectors, including energy, agriculture, and the digital economy.

Security and development: an essential link

Ambassador Jones also focused on the deepening cooperation in peace and security, which he considers an indispensable component of any meaningful development project. 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 across the region.

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

The DCP 2021-2027: Guiding Togo EU cooperation

European interventions in Togo are meticulously 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 strategic pillars: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and responsible natural resource management, and solidifying a peaceful and resilient Togolese society underpinned by inclusive governance.

A new tripartite mechanism for business in Togo

This dynamic cooperation received further impetus last June with the official launch of a tripartite cooperation mechanism, bringing together the Togolese government, Team Europe, and Eurocham Togo. This permanent consultation framework aims to cultivate a more attractive business climate, stimulate European investments, and actively support the economic reforms initiated by the Togolese government.

The initiative is also designed to channel cooperation towards delivering more tangible outcomes: robust job creation, vibrant private sector development, and the structural transformation of the Togolese economy. All these endeavors, as both parties affirm, powerfully illustrate the enduring strength of a partnership poised for continued success well beyond Ambassador Jones’s departure.