The European Union’s international agenda for the end of November is marked by the trip of the President of the European Council, António Costa, to the African continent. Among political meetings and negotiations on economics and security, the itinerary includes two stops in strategic countries: South Africa and Angola. The visit takes place in the lead-up to two major events: the G20 summit in Johannesburg and the seventh European Union-African Union summit in Luanda.
South Africa meeting helps shape EU priorities ahead of the G20
The trip begins in South Africa, where Costa will meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss progress since their last meeting in March 2025. The country, which is leading the G20 meeting in this new cycle, aims to highlight Europe’s role as a bridge between African interests and global agendas. In practical terms, this involves discussing relevant issues such as trade, energy investments, and critical materials — some of the central themes for international cooperation.
With their partnership already well consolidated, South Africa and the European Union are exploring new opportunities across several strategic sectors — especially in the field of energy transition. The growing pressure to strengthen supply chains and secure essential raw materials adds greater weight to the negotiations now taking place between both sides.
Leaders will discuss the G20 with a focus on sustainable development and global governance
This year’s G20 has the motto “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” a motto that highlights the need for more intense cooperation between developed and emerging economies in the face of various challenges common to different nations. Costa argues that sustainable development must remain at the heart of collective decisions.
“The global development agenda is at the forefront of this G20 summit. Sustainable development is one of our main priorities and we have long played a leading role in financing it. We now need deeper cooperation to achieve our common development objectives. Global challenges demand global solutions,” said Costa.
The three main sessions of the G20 are on inclusive growth, global resilience, and a just future. Other topics such as climate finance, international trade, and fair work are also central. Holding the summit in Africa for the first time sends a message to the world, highlighting the continent’s importance to the global economy.
In Angola, the EU-AU summit opens discussions on peace, prosperity, and future cooperation
Following the G20, Costa will travel to Luanda, where he will co-chair the seventh EU-AU summit alongside Angolan President João Lourenço. The meeting is commemorative, as it marks 25 years of partnership between the blocs and also coincides with Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence. The summit’s theme is “Promoting peace and prosperity through effective multilateralism,” summarising the purpose of the two-day event, which will include meetings on security, trade, migration, and development.
Costa’s Africa mission highlights renewed diplomacy and regional cooperation
Another relevant point is the increased cooperation in conflict resolution. The EU, which already has civilian and military missions in several African countries, is one of the largest funders of stability programs to address this issue. In the economic sphere, the African continent is a destination for billions of dollars in European investments; projects from the Global Gateway package, which supports green and digital transitions, are prominent in discussions.
António Costa’s trip to the African continent came with a message of diplomatic renewal between Europe and African countries. The Prime Minister’s mission aimed to align discussions on regional stability and economic opportunities, considering the current global context. Between South Africa and Angola, the EU seeks to strengthen and ensure that its partnerships remain relevant in the face of common challenges between the regions.
