Your Honour, Vice-President of the Republic of Zambia, Mrs Mutale Nalumango,

Dear Secretary General of COMESA, H.E. Chileshe Kapwepwe,

Honorable Ministers of the COMESA Member States,

Distinguished representatives of COMESA institutions,

Distinguished Guests,

• It is an honour to address you today at this 45th COMESA Council of Ministers Meeting. The European Union is proud to celebrate its enduring partnership with COMESA, an organization that has consistently demonstrated vision and leadership in advancing regional integration, economic development, and social progress.

• As we celebrate COMESA’s 30th anniversary, this milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved since the founding of the organisation in 1994. Over nearly three decades, COMESA has grown into a powerful advocate for regional cooperation, creating a platform for its 21 Member States to drive economic transformation and deepen integration across Eastern and Southern Africa. If I had to name just one significant example, it would be the launch of the COMESA Electronic Certificate of Origin (e-CO).

• The European Union is privileged to have been part of this journey, standing with COMESA to deliver tangible benefits to the citizens living in the region. From trade facilitation along vital corridors, to strengthening regional value chains and improving market access, our partnership has yielded programs that enhance connectivity, empower businesses, and promote sustainability.

• Today’s challenges—whether from climate change, geopolitical tensions, or economic uncertainties—demand that we deepen our cooperation further. As COMESA leads the efforts to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the EU reaffirms its support, recognizing the entry into force of the Tripartite Free Trade Agreement as a critical milestone on this path. These developments are a testament to COMESA’s role as a driving force in Africa’s integration agenda.

• The new leadership of the European Union will take office in the days to come. European Union has announced a renewed focus on sustainability, green and digital transformation, and resilience. These objectives align closely with the priorities of COMESA. Through flagship programs such as the €40 million Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access Programme and the €40 million SWITCH to Circular Economy in East and Southern Africa programme, we are tackling shared challenges while building pathways to greater prosperity.

• Our Global Gateway Strategy, which mobilizes €150 billion for Africa and leverages private sector investment, already delivers concrete results across the continent. It underscores the commitment of the European Union to enhancing infrastructure, fostering innovation, and driving inclusive development. By working together, we are strengthening the foundation for a resilient future that prioritizes shared economic growth and social equity.

• COMESA’s 30th anniversary allows us to celebrate its achievements, and also to intensify our efforts to support its vision. Regional integration, sustainable development, and strong partnerships remain the keys to unlocking the full potential of this region. European Union stands here to support.

• Honorable Ministers, I thank you for your leadership and commitment. The European Union looks forward to deepening its partnership with COMESA, now and in the years to come, as we build a brighter future for our regions and our people.

-Thank you-