We have achieved significant progress since the launch of the Mattei Plan a year and a half ago. Our partnership with Africa, through the Global Gateway and the Mattei Plan, focuses on investments in infrastructure, the economy, and most importantly, in people. Our mutual interests align, making our collaboration a win-win situation built on respect and shared prosperity.

Recently, we concluded five vital agreements, securing over 1.2 billion EUR in investments and guarantees for Africa, demonstrating our ability to turn political will into tangible outcomes. This is the Global Gateway investment program in action, promoting sustainable growth and quality jobs across the continent. We focus on renewable energy, transport infrastructure, digital connectivity, and healthcare initiatives, mobilizing European capital and expertise to support Africas development.

For instance, the Lobito corridor railway project aims to unlock the economic potential of Angola, DRC, and Zambia by investing in roads, agricultural supply chains, and vocational training. We have committed 77 million EUR in grants to Angola, with the total EU investment nearing 1 billion EUR.

In agriculture, we signed an EU guarantee of 110 million EUR to promote sustainable food production and self-sufficiency in Africa, reducing dependency on imports.

On renewable energy, we launched a global campaign to scale up renewables in Africa, addressing the lack of access to electricity for 600 million people. Our partnership with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti aims to invest billions in this area.

We are enhancing digital connectivity by supporting the Blue Raman undersea cable, which will empower East Africas economies through improved data access.

Finally, we are committed to addressing the digital divide created by Artificial Intelligence. Our collaboration with Italy aims to ensure that young African scientists have access to AI technology and training opportunities.

As we strengthen our partnerships along migration routes, we recognize the importance of economic development and skills training in managing migration effectively. Last year saw a 38% reduction in illegal border crossings, and we must continue to combat smuggling and trafficking.

Meetings like today’s are essential for advancing our shared agenda of prosperity and security. We look forward to reconvening in Brussels for the Global Gateway Forum in October and the Africa-Europe Summit in November.

I look forward to our continued collaboration for the benefit of both the EU and Africa.