EU and Cape Verde to Use Atlantic Islands as Development Lab
The European Union and Cape Verde are set to deepen their unique diplomatic bond by transforming the Atlantic archipelagos of the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands into a “laboratory” for joint development. The announcement followed the 14th high-level meeting between the two parties in Brussels on Wednesday.
A ‘First-Class’ Strategic Alliance
Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, representing the EU, described the current state of affairs as a “first-class relationship” marked by an impressive degree of political alignment. Central to this new phase of cooperation is the integration of Cape Verde with the EU’s outermost regions—specifically the Portuguese territories of the Azores and Madeira, and Spain’s Canary Islands.
These islands, which together with Cape Verde form the Macaronesia region, share unique geographical challenges and economic goals. Rangel noted that by focusing on joint projects within this shared Atlantic space, the partnership becomes “intimate,” bridging the gap between the African nation and the European bloc through practical, regional collaboration.
Cape Verde: A Pioneer in EU-Africa Relations
Cape Verdean Foreign Minister Manuel Amante da Rosa welcomed the initiative, stating that his country is eager to learn from the development models of its neighbors. “We can only benefit from this continuous, permanent dialogue,” he said, expressing hope that shared projects will help address the specific constraints faced by island territories.
Cape Verde remains the only African nation to hold a “special partnership” status with the EU, an agreement established in 2007. Ministers noted that the country has often served as a testing ground for cooperation strategies that were later expanded to other African nations.
Significant Investment and Security Support
The meeting also highlighted substantial financial and security commitments:
- Global Gateway Investment: The EU has already funneled 400 million euros into Cape Verde through its Global Gateway program, aimed at critical infrastructure development.
- Military Assistance: A new 60-million-euro assistance package was recently approved under the European Peace Facility to modernize and strengthen Cape Verde’s Armed Forces.
- Broad Cooperation: The two parties reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration in trade, sustainable fisheries, maritime security, and human mobility.
Looking Toward 2027
The partnership is approaching a major milestone. In 2027, Cape Verde and the EU will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their special agreement. To mark the occasion, the next high-level meeting is scheduled to take place in Cape Verde, signaling a continued commitment to a secure and credible partnership in the mid-Atlantic.
Image: Pexels – Artem Stoliar
