The European Union and Benin have reaffirmed their commitment to a strengthened partnership spanning economic development, security, and sustainability. This high-level meeting between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Beninese President Romuald Wadagni in Brussels on June 24, 2026, underscores the depth of cooperation between the two entities.
Central to their discussions was the reinforcement of mutual trust and long-term economic investments, with a shared vision to eradicate poverty, promote inclusive sustainable development, and foster peace and stability across West Africa. The leaders emphasized converting these shared goals into tangible opportunities, particularly through the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, designed to enhance connectivity and sustainable growth.
President von der Leyen highlighted Benin’s strategic importance to the EU, stating, “Benin stands as a cornerstone partner in West Africa, with our relationship built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to improving livelihoods. This partnership is the very essence of the Global Gateway initiative—where we invest in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and financial access to create opportunities and build a sustainable future. The best is yet to come.”
Three key areas of cooperation emerge from the talks
- Economic transformation and innovation: Focused on boosting growth, industrialization, and job creation, this pillar includes expanding economic corridors around the Port of Cotonou, supporting local agricultural value chains, and enhancing vocational training and youth employment initiatives.
- Regional development and security in northern Benin: Aimed at strengthening community resilience, fostering economic stability, and addressing border security challenges. New initiatives will complement existing EU investments in local infrastructure, access to essential services, and economic opportunities for border communities, alongside efforts to counter violent extremism in northern departments.
- Sustainable finance: Leveraging the EU’s Global Green Bond Initiative to mobilize private capital for sustainable infrastructure projects. This includes renewable energy, green transport, and sustainable agriculture, with Benin positioned to benefit significantly from these green financing mechanisms.
The leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation, particularly the progress of the Global Green Bond Initiative, which aims to unlock up to €20 billion in private capital for sustainable infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries. Benin is among the frontrunners in accessing these funds, demonstrating its proactive stance in green investment.
President von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s dedication to supporting northern Benin’s development, emphasizing that the strengthened partnership aligns with Benin’s ambition to emerge as a regional hub for sustainable growth, connectivity, and investment, ultimately benefiting all citizens.
Key quote:
“Benin is a key partner for the European Union in West Africa. This relationship is grounded in mutual trust and a shared determination to enhance quality of life for all. It embodies the spirit of our Global Gateway strategy—together in Benin, we are investing in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and financial access to create opportunities and build a sustainable future. The best is yet to come!”
— Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
