As his diplomatic tenure in Togo concludes, the European Union’s Ambassador, Gwilym Ceri Jones, was received by the President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, this Thursday. The occasion provided the diplomat with an opportunity to offer a glowing assessment of a partnership he describes as having substantially advanced in both scope and influence.
Following his farewell audience, the European Ambassador remarked on the broad expansion of the collaboration between Brussels and Lomé during his mission. This invigorated partnership now spans critical areas such as 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 provide a comprehensive overview of the ongoing cooperation initiatives.
According to Gwilym Ceri Jones, the departing European Union Ambassador to Togo, the overall assessment points to a considerable strengthening of this vital partnership, both in its breadth and its impact.
Expanding Investment Programs Fuel Growth
The diplomat underscored the robust growth in European investment programs within Togo, highlighting a portfolio brimming with opportunities for both Togolese and European private sectors. He believes this momentum is crucial for fostering economic growth and job creation in strategically important areas such as energy, agriculture, and digital transformation.
Security and Development: A Unified Approach
Ambassador Jones also focused on the deepening cooperation in peace and security, which he views as an indispensable element for any successful development endeavor. He reiterated that the European Union has intensified its support for the Togolese armed forces, aiding their efforts in counter-terrorism and enhancing maritime security across the region.
Gwilym Ceri Jones conveyed his appreciation for the excellent relations established between Togo and the European Union, expressing strong confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and deepen well beyond the conclusion of his own mandate.
The DCP 2021-2027: Guiding Togo-EU Cooperation
European interventions in Togo are meticulously aligned with the Joint Multi-annual Programming Document (DCP) 2021-2027, which allocates a substantial portfolio of 201 million euros. This strategic framework directs funding towards three primary objectives: fostering human development and socio-economic inclusion, promoting sustainable agro-industries and responsible natural resource management, and strengthening a peaceful and resilient Togolese society built upon inclusive governance principles.
New Tripartite Mechanism Bolsters Business Environment
The collaborative dynamic received a significant 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 cultivate a more inviting business climate, attract increased European investments, and actively support the economic reforms initiated by the Togolese government.
Furthermore, this mechanism is designed to channel cooperation towards tangible outcomes: robust job creation, vibrant private sector expansion, and the fundamental structural transformation of the Togolese economy. All these endeavors, as affirmed by both parties, exemplify the enduring strength of a partnership poised to continue its trajectory of success well beyond Ambassador Jones’s departure.
