African and European leaders have renewed their strategic partnership at the 7th AU-EU Summit in Luanda, marking a quarter-century of political and economic cooperation between the two continents. The two-day meeting, held from 24–25 November, brought together heads of state and senior officials led by Angolan President João Lourenço, Portuguese President António Costa, African Union Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The summit reaffirmed the AU-EU Joint Vision for 2030 and outlined a series of priority areas aimed at strengthening economic ties, boosting energy access, and elevating Africa and Europe’s shared global influence.
Shared Vision in a Shifting Global Order
Amid rising geopolitical tensions, leaders emphasised that closer partnership is crucial for stability and growth. President Costa said Africa and Europe “stand stronger together” in an increasingly fragmented world, while President von der Leyen stressed that the two continents “need each other more than ever” as global trade and technology become more contested.
Both sides committed to cooperation that expands job creation, supports youth aspirations, diversifies economies and reduces strategic dependencies through improved access to capital, technology and sustainable resources.
Trade, Investment and Value Chains
Trade and investment featured prominently, with Europe reaffirming its position as Africa’s largest trading partner, accounting for one-third of African trade. Key announcements included fresh EU support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), progress on major infrastructure corridors such as the Lobito Corridor, and a push to advance regional value chains in sectors including critical minerals.
The EU’s Global Gateway initiative has so far mobilised more than €120 billion for Africa, with President von der Leyen underscoring Europe’s commitment to “invest in local jobs and local value chains.” The bloc remains on course to reach €150 billion by 2027.
Accelerating Africa’s Clean Energy Transition
The summit produced renewed commitments to scale up renewable energy investments. Despite Africa holding 60% of the world’s best solar resources, the continent attracts only 2% of global clean-energy financing.
Leaders agreed to deliver clean electricity to 100 million Africans by 2030, expand renewable energy programmes using the €15.5 billion pledge secured at the G20, and support clean-cooking initiatives through a €400 million Team Europe package.
“A just transition must be for all; and it must be made in Africa,” President von der Leyen said.
Peace, Security and Humanitarian Action
Delegates called for immediate de-escalation in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and reaffirmed continued support for peace efforts in Ukraine, the occupied Palestinian territory, the Sahel and Somalia.
Both sides urged predictable UN financing for AU-led peace support missions and pledged deeper cooperation against terrorism, organised crime, hybrid threats and disinformation.
Mobility, Skills and Opportunities for Youth
The summit also prioritised expanding opportunities for Africa’s rapidly growing young population. Commitments were made to increase academic mobility, strengthen cooperation in research and innovation, and establish more legal migration pathways. Leaders also agreed on a balanced approach to migration, emphasising dignified return and reintegration where necessary.
The African diaspora was recognised as a key driver of innovation, investment and cross-continental cooperation.
Reform of the Global System
Marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the AU and EU jointly called for reforms to global governance institutions, including the international financial system, and pledged coordinated action ahead of the 2026 WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon.
Next Steps and Host Nation Recognition
Both blocs agreed to develop a joint implementation plan within six months, supported by enhanced monitoring through the Joint Monitoring Report. The next AU-EU Summit will take place in Brussels.
The AU and EU praised Angola for its warm hospitality and successful hosting of the landmark gathering.
