The 7th African Union (AU) – European Union (EU) landmark Summit recently held in Luanda Angola has committeed to continue supporting all African countries to develop, industrialise, diversify exports and integrate into regional markets.
A declaration from the Summit agreed on the need to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and promote the sustainable development of value chains to enhance the capacity of local industries to participate in regional and global markets.
“To diversify and secure global supply chains, for instance in the field of strategic and critical minerals, We will continue our support to regulatory changes to facilitate trade and investment, including through experience sharing,”the declaration reads in part.
COMESA Secretariat led by the Assistant Secretary General in Charge of Programes Ambassador Dr Mohamed Kadah participated in the Summit from 24 -25 November 2025.
It was a historical event as it coincided with the 25th Anniversary of the AU-EU Partnership. This was a significant milestone that showcased the enduring and evolving relations between Africa and Europe and COMESA being a key part of this collaboration.
Amb. Kadah commended AU and the EU for organising the Summit adding “It presented a unique opportunity to reflect on shared achievements and to chart a bold course for the future of Africa-Europe cooperation…the Summit served as a critical platform to assess progress and reaffirmed joint efforts of support and development,”
Besides the Summit, the COMESA delegation engaged in bilateral talks with the EU. The bilateral culminated in some key follow up actions which include the implementation of the joint work plan on the Sectoral Areas of Cooperation.
In order to facilitate trade, the Summit stressed the importance of maintaining open, transparent and inclusive channels of dialogue and efforts to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Peace and security and migration were also discussed in detail and the need to continue supporting the sectors.
The final text reflects several important outcomes including Shaping a Prosperous and Sustainable Future for Africa and Europe; Renewed and Enhanced Cooperation on Peace, Security, and Governance; Stronger Commitment to Multilateralism and Enhanced and Reciprocal Partnership for Migration and Mobility.