Benin: EU-Benin cooperation Set priorities for 2021-2027

By Metohuey Michael Adoglo

New priorities have been defined in the framework of cooperation between the European Union and Benin. They are contained in the Multiannual Indicative Program (MIP) 2021-2027.

A common vision, green, inclusive and generating quality jobs –this is what the European Union and Benin aspire to. It is already reflected in the Multi-Annual Indicative Program (MIP) developed for Benin, covering the period 2021-2027.

The document was presented to the government, represented by a dozen ministers, under the aegis of Minister of State Romuald Wadagni.

The second focuses on “Green Economic Growth”, which covers targeted interventions in the port of Cotonou, renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.

The third priority area selected is based on the notion of a “Safe and Prosperous Society”, to support good governance, private sector promotion, peace and stability in a deteriorating regional context

The EU will provide initial funding of 255 million euros, or more than CFAF 147 billion, for the period 2021-2024. “Today we mark an important step in our cooperation, committing to long-term support for our common priorities.

Our partnership is not only quantitative, but above all qualitative and during the coming years, my team and I will strive to put Benin at the heart of European opportunities, instruments and strategies to support our common values and interests,” said Ambassador Sylvia Hartleif, head of the EU Delegation to Benin.

The agreed priorities will be implemented in partnership with EU Member States in a “Team Europe” approach. They are in line with the UN 2030 Agenda, the Paris Agreement and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy. Worth €79.5 billion, Global Europe is the new main funding instrument for the EU’s external action for 2021-2027. Global Europe covers partnerships with all third countries, with the exception of pre-accession countries and overseas countries and territories.