The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, has emphasised that future cooperation between Europe and Africa must focus on investment and job creation rather than traditional aid.
She made this known during an engagement with student leaders at the University of Ghana, where discussions centred on economic cooperation and youth opportunities.
According to H.E. Kallas, the European Union is seeking partnerships that deliver real benefits to African countries.
“What we want is a partnership that creates prosperity here,” H.E. Kallas stated, explaining that while Europe can provide technical expertise, “the jobs and value from resources should remain in African countries.”
She noted that the European Union remains Africa’s largest investor and trading partner, even though this is not always widely recognised.
H.E. Kallas also indicated that the EU is working to strengthen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, access to critical raw materials, and economic growth.
During the interaction, student leaders raised concerns about how such partnerships can translate into employment and opportunities for young people.
In response, H.E. Kallas encouraged greater youth participation in shaping EU-Africa relations.
“You bring innovation, ideas and perspectives about how the future should be designed. This relationship must work both ways,” H.E. Kallas said.
She stressed that partnerships between Europe and Africa should be mutually beneficial, moving beyond one-sided arrangements to collaboration that supports long-term development.
The engagement formed part of broader efforts by the European Union to deepen ties with African countries through investment, trade, and youth-focused initiatives.
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