Benin and European Union forge stronger ties for sustainable development

The European Union and Benin are reinforcing their cooperation across economic, security, and sustainability fronts. In Brussels on 24 June 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Benin’s President, Romuald Wadagni. Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s dedication to bilateral relations with Benin, highlighting a partnership built on mutual trust, predictability, and long-term economic investments.

Both sides share common ambitions: eradicating poverty, fostering inclusive and sustainable development, and ensuring peace and stability in West Africa. They aim to convert this shared vision into tangible opportunities. During the meeting, the leaders expressed their commitment to deepening the partnership and accelerating cooperation under the Global Gateway strategy.

President von der Leyen stated: “Benin is a key partner for the European Union in West Africa. Our relationship is founded on mutual trust and a shared desire to improve quality of life for everyone. That is the core of our Global Gateway strategy. Together in Benin, we are investing in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and access to finance to create opportunities and build a sustainable future. The best is yet to come!”

Three cooperation priorities were outlined during the meeting:

– Economic transformation and innovation, aimed at boosting growth, industrialisation, and job creation. This effort leverages the development of economic corridors around the Port of Cotonou, supports local agricultural value chain transformation, and strengthens vocational training and skills for young people.

– Territorial development and security in northern Benin, focusing on enhancing local community resilience, regional stability, and economic development. New initiatives will complement existing EU investments in local infrastructure, access to basic services, economic opportunities for border communities, and violent extremism prevention in the northern departments.

– Sustainable finance to attract more private investment for sustainable infrastructure via the EU’s Global Green Bond Initiative. This initiative aims to facilitate financing for green projects in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and agriculture by mobilising private capital through green bond issuance.

The leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation, particularly praising progress under the Global Green Bond Initiative, which seeks to mobilise up to €20 billion in private capital for sustainable infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries. Through this support, Benin is among the best-positioned nations to benefit from this instrument.

President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to continuing support for northern Benin’s development. With this strengthened partnership, the EU is determined to accompany Benin in its ambition to become a regional hub for sustainable growth, connectivity, and investment, benefiting all its citizens.