Gathered in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, under the theme "Partners in Progress: Enhancing EU-Africa Competitiveness for Sustainable Growth", liberals, centrists and democrats from the Renew Europe political family together with our sister parties from Pacific, Africa and Caribbean (RenewPAC), declared their unwavering commitment to forging a future of mutual progress and prosperity given the current unstable international climate.

The high level event, featuring ministers, ambassadors, parliamentarians and local representatives, organised by the Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament together with the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace, was opened by Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, Vice-President of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire. Our political group, represented in the Abidjan Summit by seven MEPs, committed to advancing bold and tangible actions across key areas that define the future of EU-Africa relations, including a deeper cooperation on defence, counterterrorism, and peacekeeping, promoting resilient governance and institutions, building climate resilience, strengthening economic competitiveness and prioritising youth, health and education.

Donald Trump’s recent suspension of funding for USAID programs created a shockwave across the African continent, putting at risk millions of people who are not having access anymore to medical care, such as HIV treatments and prevention of a number of deadly diseases, to clean water and basic food supplies.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the RenewPAC Summit in Abidjan, Renew Europe MEP, Jan-Christoph Oetjen (FDP, Germany), co-President of Renewpac, said:

“There is only one way to face the new geopolitical dynamics: more unity, equal partnerships and a deeper cooperation on key areas in the benefit of our both continents. Europe and Africa have a lot to offer to each other and it is our duty, as liberals and democrats, to unlock the full potential of our relations, securing prosperity for our citizens. This is more than a wake-up call, it’s a call for tangible action. Let’s make it a win-win.”

Renew Europe MEP, Hilde Vautmans (Open vld, Belgium), RenewPAC co-Vice President and Chair of the Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly, added:

“We need to put in place solid initiatives with direct positive impact on both our continents. When it comes to raw materials, for example, it should not only be exported, but also processed here in Africa, creating jobs, industries, and wealth for Africans and Europeans. Another priority must be strengthening our Security and Defence cooperation and counter instability, terrorism, and foreign interference with a rapid EU defence force.

For too long, Europe’s response has been predictable: write a check, sign an aid package, issue a statement, pointing fingers when it comes to human rights and expect change. It didn’t work. It’s time for a new strategy, a real marriage, one that will thrive.”