EU Officials Hold Productive Talks with SADC Acting Executive Secretary, Dr. Judith Kateera
Representatives from the European Union’s top diplomatic and development bodies engaged in fruitful discussions today with the Acting Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Dr. Judith Kateera, at the SADC Secretariat headquarters.
The meeting, attended by Ms. Luisa Ragher, Head of Division for Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean at the European External Action Service (EEAS), and Ms. Sylvie Millot, Head of Unit for Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean at the European Commission’s Directorate General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), aimed to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration between SADC and the EU.
Among the topics of discussion were the forthcoming SADC-EU Ministerial Meeting scheduled to take place in Luanda, Angola, as well as regional developments concerning elections, peace, and security. The pressing issue of the El Niño Southern Africa Emergency was also addressed, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to mitigate its effects.
The EEAS expressed gratitude for the robust partnership between the EU and SADC, underscoring its significance in fostering regional stability and prosperity. Both parties acknowledged the impending withdrawal of the SADC Mission from Mozambique and discussed the extension of the EU Training Mission’s mandate to provide continued support to the Cabo Delgado region.
Additionally, the EU delegation commended SADC for its collaboration in regional programs, including the ongoing mid-term review of the Sub-Saharan Africa Multi-Annual Indicative Programme and the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative aimed at bridging investment gaps in critical sectors.
Dr. Kateera provided insights into the operationalization of the SADC Regional Development Fund (RDF), emphasizing its role in promoting regional integration and economic growth.
She highlighted SADC’s commitment to engaging the private sector and innovative financing mechanisms to address emerging challenges such as climate change.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing eagerness to further strengthen cooperation for the mutual benefit of SADC member states and the European Union.
The dialogue exemplified the shared commitment to advancing regional development and addressing common challenges through strategic partnerships.
Source: SADC
