The European Union and Bénin are taking their bilateral ties to a new level, focusing on economic transformation, security in the northern regions, and sustainable finance. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Bénin’s President Romuald Wadagni in Brussels on 24 June 2026 to reaffirm a partnership built on mutual trust, predictability, and long-term investment.
Both sides share ambitions to eradicate poverty, foster inclusive and sustainable development, and maintain peace and stability across West Africa. They intend to turn this shared vision into tangible opportunities, accelerating cooperation under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
“Bénin is a key partner for the European Union in West Africa. Our relationship is founded on mutual trust and a common desire to improve living standards for everyone. That is the very essence of our Global Gateway strategy. Together in Bénin, we are investing in transport and energy infrastructure, skills development, and access to finance to create opportunities and build a sustainable future. The best is yet to come,” von der Leyen stated.
The meeting highlighted three priority areas for enhanced cooperation:
Economic transformation and innovation – Supporting growth, industrialisation, and job creation through economic corridors around the Port of Cotonou, local agricultural value chain processing, and vocational training for youth.
Territorial development and security in northern Bénin – Building community resilience, stability, and economic development with new actions complementing existing EU investments in local infrastructure, basic services, economic opportunities for border communities, and prevention of violent extremism in the northern departments.
Sustainable finance – Mobilising private investment for green infrastructure through the EU’s Global Green Bond Initiative, which aims to unlock up to €20 billion in private capital for sustainable projects in low- and middle-income countries. Bénin is well-positioned to benefit from this instrument, particularly in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and agriculture.
The leaders reviewed ongoing cooperation and welcomed progress under the Global Green Bond Initiative. Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting northern Bénin’s development. With this strengthened partnership, the EU aims to help Bénin become a regional hub for sustainable growth, connectivity, and investment, benefiting all its citizens.
