** Strengthen the links between the European Union and the African Union: an imperative in time of geopolitical upheavals **
The recent Summit of Foreign Affairs of the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU) in Brussels highlighted the growing importance of enhanced cooperation between these two blocks. Although this meeting was held in a friendly climate, it is also marked by the contingent challenges as well as by multidimensional issues which require special attention.
### Context and geopolitical issues
This meeting took place in an unstable global context. Indeed, the repercussions of the war in Ukraine continue to redefine international alliances, while the crisis in Sudan exacerbates humanitarian suffering, with more than 30 million people requiring emergency aid. The AU recognizes the importance of an answer led locally to African crises, a point underlined by Kaja Kallas, the head of the EU foreign policy.
The current dynamics in the Sahel, where several countries reinforce their links with Russia, raises important questions about the EU strategy. How can the EU ensure that its commitment to Africa is not perceived as a desire to redefine its colonial influence, especially in an increasingly marked era by multilateral dispute?
## long term commitments and implemented
The summit made it possible to reaffirm the commitment of the two entities to promote peace, security and inclusive economic growth. However, the transition from action to action remains a major challenge. The EU’s wish to support the AU in its mediation efforts is commendable, but what does “African” support really mean for the Africans concerned?
The absence of significant results on the ground is often noted. EU ministers will have to copy the use of a policy of mutual benefits. The integration and resilience of the markets are potential starting points, but their implementation must go beyond speeches and require concrete investments and sustainable partnerships.
### The challenges of information and narration
Kaja Kallas also underlined the battle of stories, a crucial issue in the fight against disinformation, particularly in Africa. It is crucial to approach this question with nuance. European states must recognize the need for communication and transparent information. What strategies does the EU take place to counter external influences while respecting the autonomy of African countries in their political choices?
The question of the perception that African countries have of their partnership with the EU is at the heart of this debate. Are the dialogues really inclusive? Are the voices of the Sahel countries, for example, really taken into account in the formulation of policies that concern them directly?
### Towards a proactive collaboration
To conclude, the summit made it possible to establish bases for enhanced cooperation, but concrete actions are necessary. The future of relations between the EU and the AU depends on the ability of the two blocks to engage in an honest conversation, where African concerns are heard and integrated.
By trying to consider regional specificities and to build partnerships based on mutual respect and equality, it may be possible to open bridges to a collaborative and beneficial future for the two continents. The path to go is punctuated by challenges, but it also offers union possibilities in the face of current global crises. How can European and African governments work together to forge a truly fair and lasting partnership? This question requires collective and shared reflection, beyond borders.