Results of the Sixth Summit between the European Union and the African Union.

Abstract

The Sixth Summit between the European Union and the African Union sought to continue the partnership between the two regions of the world in a context marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, migration crises and economic tensions. The summit brought together leaders from both continents to address key issues such as cooperation, financing, peace and security, sustainable development and climate change. It was structured around seven thematic tables that promoted dialogue on investment, health, education and mobility, among other topics. The main outcome was the Joint Declaration of a €150 billion financial package under the Global Gateway Investment Plan, which has maintained the African continent's dependence on Europe. In addition, the slow pace of implementation and the imposition of financial conditions for its application have been implemented as a mechanism to preserve Europe's economic influence in the region. Although the event reflected progress in institutionalising dialogue and including non-state actors, its real impact will depend on the political will to overcome historical dynamics of dependence and economic dispossession in order to ensure effective cooperation. The present article aims to describe the development of the Sixth Summit between the European Union and the African Union based on its main agreements.