The Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly is bringing together around 150 European and African parliamentarians in Ezulwini (Eswatini) from 12 to 14 May. For three days, the elected representatives are discussing peace and security issues, the future of multilateralism, youth mobility, the role of women in agriculture and access to raw materials, an issue that for the first time is being addressed by a working group.
“Africa possesses many essential raw materials that are absolutely essential to Europe’s energy transition and green transition. We are therefore going to work together to achieve good results for all parties”, stated the Assembly’s co-president, Hilde Vautmans (Renew Europe, Belgian), at a press conference on Tuesday morning to open the parliamentary session.
Kaja Kallas warns Africans of the Russian threat. “Russia sees partnerships as means to take your resources, not to strengthen your security”, stressed the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, speaking via video link at the first session of the Assembly on Tuesday afternoon.
“That is not Europe’s idea of cooperation. We are a partner that any country and region can rely on. That is also why we can be Africa’s partner of choice at the multilateral level, not least to strengthen the rules based order”, continued Ms Kallas, recalling the EU’s support for strengthening Africa’s representation at the United Nations. (Original version in French by Bernard Denuit)