The European Union and Benin are strengthening their cooperation across economic, security, and sustainability sectors. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Benin’s President Romuald Wadagni in Brussels on 24 June 2026, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to bilateral relations built on mutual trust, predictability, and long-term economic investments.
Both sides share common goals: eradicating poverty, fostering inclusive and sustainable development, and ensuring peace and stability in West Africa. They aim to turn this shared vision into concrete opportunities. During the meeting, the two leaders expressed their determination to deepen the partnership and accelerate cooperation under the Global Gateway strategy.
President von der Leyen stated: “Benin is a key partner for the European Union in West Africa. Our relationship is founded on mutual trust and a shared commitment to improving quality of life for everyone. That is the essence of our Global Gateway strategy. Together in Benin, we invest in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and access to finance—creating opportunities and building a sustainable future. The best is yet to come!”
Three priority areas for cooperation were outlined during the talks:
Economic transformation and innovation – supporting growth, industrialisation, and job creation through development of economic corridors around the Port of Cotonou, local processing of agricultural value chains, and enhanced vocational training for young people.
Territorial development and security in northern Benin – strengthening resilience of local communities, regional stability, and economic development. New actions will complement existing EU investments in local infrastructure, access to basic services, economic opportunities for border communities, and violent extremism prevention in the northern departments.
Sustainable finance – mobilising more private investment for sustainable infrastructure through the EU’s Global Green Bond Initiative, which aims to facilitate financing for green projects in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and agriculture by issuing green bonds.
The leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation, welcoming progress under the Global Green Bond Initiative, which seeks to mobilise up to €20 billion in private capital for sustainable infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries. Benin is well placed to benefit from this instrument.
President von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting development in northern Benin. With this strengthened partnership, the EU is determined to help Benin become a regional hub for sustainable growth, connectivity, and investment, benefiting all its citizens.
