Minister Fajon: Benin is an extremely valuable partner for the EU in West Africa

SLOVENIA, April 7 - “Benin is an extremely valuable partner for the EU in West Africa. This is reflected in our cooperation in various fields – from security, trade and green energy to infrastructure and human capital. We recognise and support Benin’s potential to resolutely continue its development, as we need stable partners in the West African region to counter the growing security risks from an increasingly restive Sahel,” the Minister said on the sidelines of her meeting with Benin’s Foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari. She assured him of the EU’s support in fighting terrorism and organised crime affecting mainly the north of the country. 

The Minister also met with Romuald Wadagni, Minister of Economy and Finance, Abdoulaye Bío Tchané, Minister of Development and Government Coordination, Alassane Seïdou, Minister of the Interior and Public Security, and Fortunet Nouatin, Minister of Defence. They discussed Benin’s modernisation plans and how the EU could contribute to the country’s further development through a stronger political, economic and security partnership.

In the light of Slovenia’s active role in the UN Security Council, Minister Fajon was briefed in detail on the regional security context and the situation, especially in Niger and Burkina Faso, where military coups have taken place in recent years. 

The EU’s development assistance under the Global Gateway instrument in Benin focuses on three priority areas: sustainable human capital development, green economic growth and a safe and sustainable society. Minister Fajon visited two project sites reflecting the direction of development supported in Benin by the EU. The Port of Cotonou is at the heart of Benin’s economy and is also vital for the foreign trade of neighbouring countries; with the help of the Port of Antwerp in Belgium, it is on a path of modernisation, including digitalisation, infrastructure renewal and a vision of sustainability. Slovenian Foreign Minister also met with the young people who are involved in the Sèmè City project – a regional hub for innovation, education and entrepreneurship. EU aid that supports education and business opportunities for young Africans, and consequently better prospects for the future, is much appreciated in Benin.

At a meeting with the representatives of Beninese civil society, the Minister said that they are important EU partners, especially for the implementation of projects on human rights, gender equality, good governance, humanitarian aid and sustainable and inclusive development.

Minister Fajon’s visit to Benin on behalf of the EU is also a good opportunity for strengthening bilateral relations between Slovenia and Benin, which are rather limited. The Memorandum of understanding on political and diplomatic consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries, signed by both Ministers, is the first step towards further cooperation. The Beninese counterparts were interested to hear in what areas Slovenia could offer expertise and where cooperation could be possible – from tourism to artificial intelligence and space.