European and African leaders convened in Angola to address critical issues such as raw material procurement, regional security, and the implementation of the Global Gateway initiative. The meeting highlights the EU’s efforts to counter China’s growing influence on the continent, as both sides seek to strengthen economic and security partnerships.
The Global Gateway initiative, launched by the EU, aims to provide an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative by investing in infrastructure and digital projects across Africa. While China has been a major player in African infrastructure development, the EU is positioning itself to offer a more integrated approach, combining economic investment with political and security commitments. This strategy is intended to counterbalance China’s influence and ensure that African countries benefit from diversified partnerships.
Leaders from both regions emphasized the importance of collaboration in securing Africa’s natural resources and addressing security challenges. The discussions underscored the EU’s interest in fostering a more stable and secure continent, which could, in turn, create a more favorable environment for European businesses and investments. However, the success of the EU’s strategy will depend on its ability to deliver on promises and compete effectively with the extensive investments and infrastructure projects already underway by China.