ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (BG) – The African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) have signed a €20 million agreement aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and promoting key development projects throughout Africa.

The EU-African Union Partnership Performance Acceleration Programme (AUPPAP) agreement was signed during Wednesday’s information session on the EU-Africa Global Gateway Investment Package. It aligns with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the AU-EU Joint Vision for 2030.

The agreement seeks to accelerate economic integration, digital connectivity, and energy development while reinforcing AU institutions and promoting long-term cooperation between the two continents.

“The AU and the EU must continue to strengthen their long-term partnership, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, to address global challenges and transform both our continents,” said Ambassador Fathallah Sijilmassi, Director General of the African Union Commission (AUC).

He highlighted the programme’s role in “deepening of African integration and sustainable development, as envisioned in the mission and vision of the African Union.”

Ambassador of the EU to the AU, Javier Niño Pérez, emphasized Africa as a key political priority. “Our unique partnership focuses on solidarity, peace and security, sustainable development and prosperity with the rules based international order and multilateralism at its core.”

He added that the EU remains the AU’s largest international partner and reaffirmed support for AU strategies in digital, energy, and economic integration.

The AUPPAP will focus on three main areas: enhancing AU organizational performance, strengthening policy frameworks for economic and energy development, and improving monitoring mechanisms for AU policies.

The programme will support the AU’s broader mission by reinforcing these areas while complementing the EU Global Gateway Investment Package for Africa.

This agreement marks a significant step in the AU-EU partnership, reflecting their commitment to sustainable development, resilience, and economic growth across Africa.