Politics

EZULWINI – The Kingdom of Eswatini and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their long-standing partnership aimed at promoting sustainable growth, peace, and prosperity.

This comes after the two sides successfully concluded the 2nd Partnership Dialogue under the new Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States-European Union (OACPS-EU) Agreement, held at the Royal Villas yesterday.

The high-level meeting was co-chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu, and the EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg. It was attended by several EU Member State ambassadors accredited to Eswatini, reflecting the EU’s Team Europe approach to joint engagement. The dialogue marked another milestone in more than 50 years of cooperation between the Kingdom and the EU, focusing on shared values of mutual respect, democracy, and inclusive development.

Discussions were held in a spirit of constructive engagement and centred on the Samoa Agreement’s priority areas, including governance, human rights, peace and security, human and social development, inclusive economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

The talks also ensured alignment with Eswatini’s national development priorities and the Government’s Programme of Action.

Both parties committed to strengthening trade and investment ties through the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement, aimed at unlocking inclusive growth and creating jobs.

They further explored future opportunities under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, including financing for quality infrastructure in the digital, energy, and transport sectors.

The dialogue also highlighted the EU’s current cooperation focus in Eswatini, particularly on market-driven skills development and youth empowerment.

Full article available in our publication.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu alongside His Excellency Karsten Mecklenburg, the EU Ambassador to Eswatini, overseeing the proceedings.