On Wednesday, June 24, Bénin’s President Romuald Wadagni travelled to Brussels, Belgium, for a working visit at the headquarters of European institutions. The aim was to establish the foundations of a modernised partnership between Bénin and the European Union (EU), designed to tackle emerging development challenges.
During his stay, President Wadagni met with top EU officials, including European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen.
In talks with Costa, both sides explored the main pillars of bilateral cooperation, seeking to inject fresh dynamism into a relationship rooted in mutual trust, stability, and shared objectives. The discussions with Von Der Leyen centred on ways to deepen the EU-Bénin partnership, with both leaders reaffirming their determination to speed up collaboration in several strategic fields.
Three key priorities emerged from the meetings. First, economic transformation and innovation, focusing on industrialisation, job creation, development of economic corridors linked to the Port of Cotonou, local processing of agricultural products, and vocational training for young people. Second, territorial development and security in northern Bénin, with increased support for local communities to combat violent extremism through better basic infrastructure and economic opportunities. Third, sustainable finance, linked to the Global Green Bond Initiative, a mechanism to fund sustainable infrastructure in renewable energy, transport, and agriculture.
President Von Der Leyen highlighted that Bénin is a key EU partner in West Africa, with a relationship built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to improving quality of life for all. The Bénin presidency noted that strengthening this partnership also aims to position Bénin as a regional hub for growth, connectivity, and investment in West Africa.
