As his diplomatic mission in Togo concludes, European Union Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones was received this Thursday by the President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. This meeting provided the diplomat an opportunity to deliver a glowing assessment of a partnership he describes as having substantially expanded in both scale and influence.
Following his farewell audience, the European ambassador commended the broadened scope of the collaboration between Brussels and Lomé throughout his tenure. This pivotal Togo EU partnership now encompasses crucial areas such as sustainable development, infrastructure, energy, governance, education, and security. He explained that his visit aimed to engage with the Togolese head of state, listen to his perspectives, and provide an overview of the ongoing cooperation efforts.
Ambassador Gwilym Ceri Jones affirmed that the evaluation reveals a considerable strengthening of this partnership, both in its reach and its impact across various sectors.
Thriving European Investment Initiatives
The diplomat underscored the reinforcement of European investment programs within Togo, noting a portfolio that presents numerous opportunities for both the Togolese and European private sectors. He believes this momentum is crucial for fostering economic growth and employment in strategic areas, including energy, agriculture, and the digital economy.
Security and Development: An Essential Link
The ambassador also focused on the deepening cooperation in peace and security, which he considers an inseparable component of any development project. He highlighted the European Union’s enhanced support for the Togolese armed forces, both in counter-terrorism efforts and in strengthening maritime security across the region.
Gwilym Ceri Jones further expressed his appreciation for the excellent relations established between Togo and the European Union, conveying confidence that this robust partnership will continue to deepen beyond his own mandate.
The 2021-2027 Joint Programming Document: Cooperation Framework
European interventions in Togo are meticulously structured within the Joint Multi-annual Programming Document (DCP) 2021-2027, which commands a substantial portfolio of 201 million euros. This strategic framework directs funding towards three primary axes: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and responsible natural resource management, and solidifying a peaceful and resilient Togolese society founded upon inclusive governance.
New Tripartite Mechanism for Business Development
This dynamic cooperation received an additional boost last June with the official launch of a tripartite cooperation mechanism. This initiative brings together the Togolese government, Team Europe, and Eurocham Togo. This permanent consultation framework is designed to cultivate a more attractive business climate, stimulate European investments, and support the economic reforms currently being implemented by the Togolese government.
Ultimately, this mechanism aims to guide cooperation towards more tangible outcomes: robust job creation, significant private sector development, and the structural transformation of the Togolese economy. These collective initiatives, as underscored by both parties, powerfully illustrate the enduring strength of the Togo EU partnership, set to continue its trajectory of growth well beyond Ambassador Jones’s departure.
