As his diplomatic assignment in Togo concluded, the European Union Ambassador, Gwilym Ceri Jones, was received this Thursday by the President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. This occasion allowed the seasoned diplomat to present a highly favorable assessment of a partnership he characterized as having substantially expanded in both scope and impact.
Following his farewell audience, the European ambassador lauded the broadened collaboration between Brussels and Lomé during his tenure. This partnership now extends across vital areas including sustainable development, infrastructure, energy, governance, education, and security. He explained his purpose was to engage with the Togolese head of state, listen to his perspectives, and evaluate the progress of the ongoing cooperation.
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Gwilym Ceri Jones, the departing European Union Ambassador to Togo, affirmed that his mission witnessed a profound strengthening of this crucial partnership, both in its breadth and influence.
Thriving European investment programs in Togo
The diplomat underscored the significant reinforcement of European investment programs within Togo. He highlighted a robust portfolio that presents numerous opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors. This dynamic, he explained, is designed to bolster growth and employment in sectors deemed strategic, notably energy, agriculture, and digital transformation.
Security and development: intertwined pillars
Ambassador Jones also focused on the deepening cooperation in peace and security, which he considers integral to any successful development initiative. He reiterated the European Union’s enhanced support for the Togolese armed forces, strengthening their capabilities in both counter-terrorism efforts and maritime security.
Furthermore, Gwilym Ceri Jones expressed his appreciation for the excellent quality of relations forged 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: a cooperation blueprint
European initiatives in Togo are guided by the multi-annual Joint Programming Document (DCP) for 2021-2027, which allocates a substantial portfolio of 201 million euros. This comprehensive framework directs funding towards three primary objectives: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and natural resource management, and consolidating a peaceful and resilient Togolese society founded on inclusive governance.
A new tripartite mechanism to boost business ties
The momentum of this 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. The permanent consultation framework aims to enhance the attractiveness of the business climate, stimulate European investments, and support the economic reforms undertaken by the Togolese government.
Ultimately, this mechanism is designed to yield more tangible results: creating employment opportunities, fostering private sector development, and facilitating the structural transformation of the Togolese economy. These collective initiatives, according to both parties, clearly demonstrate the enduring strength of a partnership poised for continued success well beyond Ambassador Jones’s departure.
