Leaders from across Africa and Europe have descended on Luanda, Angola, for the 7th African Union–European Union Summit, a gathering that promises to redefine the partnership between the two continents.
Under the theme Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism, the summit draws together representatives from all 55 African Union member states and all 27 European Union countries, including Malawi’s Vice President, Dr Jane Ansah.
The city welcomed delegates with colourful cultural performances, a vibrant introduction to Angola’s rich heritage and a signal of the summit’s celebratory spirit.
Opening the proceedings, Angola’s President and current African Union Chairperson, João Lourenço, reflected on the significance of the moment. November, he noted, is a month of double celebration: Angola’s 50th year of independence and the honour of hosting this landmark summit.
For Lourenço, the summit is more than a meeting of leaders; it is a platform for Africa to assert its growing voice on the global stage and for the two continents to collaborate on shared priorities.
Peace, security, and stability, he stressed, are the bedrock of economic growth. Without them, prosperity remains elusive. The summit, he said, provides a space to tackle these challenges together.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined Europe’s pledge to deepen economic and infrastructural ties with Africa, revealing that €150 billion has been set aside for investment across the continent by 2027.
She highlighted plans to build transport corridors, enhance digital networks, and establish pathways for African minerals to reach global markets efficiently. Von der Leyen emphasised that such partnerships will empower local businesses to meet international standards and expand their reach, turning trade into a tool for local economic empowerment.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described the AU–EU collaboration as pivotal in creating a fairer and more balanced world order. He argued that the partnership can help rectify historic inequalities, strengthen the voice of developing nations, and boost the capacity of financial institutions and development banks.
Over the next two days, summit discussions will tackle governance, economic transformation, migration, and security, all with the aim of forging a more equitable and sustainable future.
As leaders deliberate in Luanda, the summit is shaping up to be a turning point — a moment when Africa and Europe come together not just to discuss, but to build a shared path forward for generations to come.