AU–EU 7th Summit Kicks Off in Luanda as Leaders Mark 25 Years of Partnership

Addis Ababa, November 24, 2025 (FMC) — The 7th African Union–European Union (AU–EU) Summit kicked off today in Luanda, bringing together Heads of State and Government from both unions to reaffirm their 25-year partnership and outline priorities for deeper cooperation.

Co-chaired by Angolan President João Lourenço, in his capacity as Chairperson of the African Union, and European Council President António Costa, the two-day Summit runs from 24–25 November. AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are among the senior officials attending.

This year’s Summit carries added significance as Africa and Europe mark a quarter-century of formal partnership established at the inaugural Africa–EU Summit in Cairo in 2000. Leaders are convening under the theme “Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism,” with discussions centered on peace and security, prosperity and investment, human development and mobility, and planetary sustainability.

Pre-summit engagements have been underway in Luanda since last week. The AU–EU Youth and Civil Society Forum, held on 20–21 November, brought together young leaders and civil society organizations to provide recommendations for consideration at the Summit. The Business Forum also opened today, gathering African and European private-sector actors to explore investment opportunities and strengthen economic ties.

Ethiopian delegation led by President Taye Atske-Selassie is also participating in the Summit.

Leaders are expected to adopt a joint declaration and updated programme of work to guide the next phase of the AU–EU partnership.