By Burnett Munthali

Leaders from Africa and Europe have converged in Luanda, Angola, for the 7th African Union–European Union Summit, launching the event with a strong appeal for deeper collaboration, stability, and shared progress.

Bringing together representatives from all 55 African Union nations and all 27 European Union member states, the summit is being held under the banner Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism. Malawi is being represented by its Vice President, Dr Jane Ansah.

Participants were greeted with performances that celebrated the cultural vibrancy and artistic heritage of Angola, setting a spirited tone for the high-level meeting.

Angolan President João Lourenço, who is also the current Chairperson of the AU, opened the proceedings by reflecting on the significance of November, a month in which Angola celebrates 50 years of independence. He said hosting the summit during such a landmark moment underscores Africa’s expanding influence across global platforms.

President Lourenço explained that the gathering provides an essential opportunity for the two continents to reassess their relationship and strengthen cooperation in vital sectors such as security, trade, investment, and climate resilience. He reiterated that peace and stability form the backbone of economic advancement and must remain at the forefront of AU–EU engagement.

He added that the partnership offers both continents a chance to reflect on their historical ties while working towards a more secure and prosperous shared future.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reinforced the EU’s determination to boost economic cooperation with Africa, confirming that €150 billion has been allocated for African investment projects up to 2027.

She noted that Europe is prioritising major infrastructure initiatives designed to improve connectivity, including enhanced digital links and transport routes. Among these efforts is the development of a trade corridor to support the movement of critical minerals from Africa to global markets.

Von der Leyen said such partnerships have helped African businesses upgrade their production standards and expand their presence in international markets, turning cross-continental trade into a tool for domestic economic growth.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres characterised the AU–EU partnership as a central force in shaping an emerging multipolar world order. He highlighted the potential of the relationship to address historical imbalances and support a more equitable global economic system.

Guterres stressed the importance of ensuring developing nations have greater influence in global financial institutions, ending cycles of unsustainable debt, and enabling development banks to extend more meaningful support.

Throughout its two-day duration, the summit will consider ways to advance cooperation in areas such as peacebuilding, governance, multilateral diplomacy, economic development, and migration.

With these discussions under way, the Luanda summit is widely expected to chart a renewed and more balanced course for Africa–Europe relations in the years ahead.