Togo's Foreign Minister, Professor Robert Dussey, recently launched his book "Des négociations à la signature de l’Accord de Samoa" in Brussels. The event took place on the sidelines of the 65th session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACP). The ceremony was attended by Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, who emphasized the strong relations between Lomé and Brussels.
As the chief negotiator for OACP countries from 2018 to 2021, Dussey played a crucial role in shaping the Samoa Agreement. He led negotiations with European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen on behalf of 79 countries. The agreement aims to succeed the Cotonou Agreement, which was signed in 2000 and expired in 2020. The new accord was finally signed on November 15, 2023, in Apia, Samoa.
The Samoa Agreement sets the stage for a 20-year partnership between the European Union and OACP countries. The accord covers key areas such as peace and security, governance, economic development, environment, and migration. It also includes three regional protocols, one of which is dedicated to Africa. The agreement was initially expected to be signed earlier, but negotiations stalled due to sensitive issues like migration and reproductive health.
The presence of Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot at the book launch highlighted the strong ties between Togo and Belgium. The two ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between their countries and explored the future of Africa-Europe relations. Dussey expressed his gratitude to Prévot for attending the event, describing him as a "cher ami" (dear friend).
In his book, Dussey shares his insights on the negotiation process that led to the Samoa Agreement. As an author and a key player in the negotiations, he offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that arose during the talks. The book is a testament to his expertise and experience in international diplomacy.
The launch of Dussey's book in Brussels provided a platform for him to share his knowledge with a wider audience. The event also underscored the importance of the Samoa Agreement in shaping the future of Africa-Europe relations. With the agreement in place, both parties are expected to work together on key issues like migration, economic development, and environmental protection.
The relationship between Togo and Belgium was a key theme during the book launch. Dussey and Prévot emphasized the need for continued cooperation and dialogue between their countries. The two ministers also highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between Africa and Europe, particularly in the face of global challenges like climate change and economic inequality.
Key points
- The Samoa Agreement sets the stage for a 20-year partnership between the European Union and OACP countries.
