The European Union and Bénin are reinforcing their collaboration across economic growth, security, and sustainability. On 24 June 2026 in Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Bénin’s President Romuald Wadagni. Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to its bilateral ties with Bénin, highlighting a partnership built on mutual trust, predictability, and long-term economic investment.
Together, the EU and Bénin pursue shared objectives: eradicating poverty, fostering inclusive and sustainable development, and promoting peace and stability in West Africa. Both sides aim to turn this common vision into tangible opportunities. During the meeting, the leaders expressed their determination to deepen the partnership and accelerate cooperation under the Global Gateway strategy.
President von der Leyen stated: “Bénin is a key partner of the European Union in West Africa. This relationship is founded on mutual trust and a shared commitment to improving quality of life for everyone. That is precisely what the Global Gateway strategy is all about. Together in Bénin, we are investing in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and access to finance, creating opportunities and building a sustainable future. The best is yet to come!”
The meeting highlighted three priority areas for cooperation:
– Economic transformation and innovation to drive growth, industrialisation, and job creation. This includes developing economic corridors around the Port of Cotonou, supporting local agricultural value chains, and expanding vocational training and skills for young people.
– Territorial development and security in northern Bénin to strengthen local community resilience, regional stability, and economic progress. New actions will complement existing EU investments in local infrastructure, basic services, economic opportunities for border communities, and initiatives to prevent violent extremism in the northern departments.
– Sustainable finance to mobilise more private investment for sustainable infrastructure through the EU’s Global Green Bond Initiative. This initiative aims to facilitate financing for green projects in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and agriculture by leveraging private capital via green bond issuance.
The two leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation, notably 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. Thanks to this support, Bénin is well positioned to benefit from the instrument.
President von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to continue supporting development in northern Bénin. With a strengthened partnership, the EU is determined to accompany Bénin in its ambition to become a regional hub for sustainable growth, connectivity, and investment, benefiting all its people.
