Togo's Robert Dussey Recounts Two Years of Negotiations for Samoa Agreement

On November 8, Togo's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, dedicated his latest book in Brussels, detailing the lengthy negotiations that led to the Samoa Agreement between the European Union and the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OEACP). The event took place on the sidelines of the 65th session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the OEACP. Notable attendees included Maxime Prévot, Belgian Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.

As the chief negotiator for OEACP countries from 2018 to 2021, Dussey led one of the most extensive international negotiations of the past decade on behalf of 79 countries. The goal was to succeed the Cotonou Agreement, signed in 2000, which governed European relations with African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries for twenty years. Discussions began in September 2018 but were prolonged due to a lack of agreement, necessitating several extensions of the Cotonou Agreement after its expiration in 2020.

The negotiations involved reconciling diverse interests, with sensitive topics such as migration, returns, and readmission, as well as societal issues like sexual and reproductive health. Despite challenges, the text was finally initialed in April 2021. However, the signature process was delayed due to opposition from several EU member states, including Hungary.

The Samoa Agreement was eventually signed on November 15, 2023, in Apia, Samoa. The agreement sets the framework for a twenty-year partnership, covering areas such as peace and security, governance, economic development, environment, and migration. It includes three regional protocols, one of which is dedicated to Africa.

As a key figure in the negotiations, Dussey's book provides an insider's perspective on the two-year deadlock and the ultimate signing of the agreement. His account highlights the complexities and challenges faced during the negotiations.

The Samoa Agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the EU and OEACP countries, promoting sustainable development and addressing global challenges. The agreement's implementation will be crucial in shaping the future of European-African-Caribbean-Pacific relations.

Robert Dussey's dedication of his book in Brussels underscores the significance of the Samoa Agreement and the role Togo played in its negotiation. The agreement's success will depend on effective implementation and continued cooperation between the EU and OEACP countries.

Key points

• The Samoa Agreement sets the stage for a twenty-year partnership between the EU and OEACP countries.
• Robert Dussey's book provides an insider's account of the negotiations.
• The agreement covers areas such as peace and security, governance, and migration.