BY MBONO MDLULI
EZULWINI – The newly appointed High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, delivered a strong message of partnership, opportunity and shared prosperity during an address focused on strengthening relations between Europe and Africa.
Speaking through a video message to parliamentarians and delegates during the official opening of the first session of the Africa-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly held at Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre (ICC), Kallas emphasised the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy at a time when global cooperation is more necessary than ever. She said diplomacy between governments, parliaments and ordinary citizens remains essential for peace, stability and economic development.
Kallas highlighted the European Union’s longstanding relationship with African nations, describing the EU as Africa’s leading trading partner, investor and supporter in peace and security initiatives. She pointed to joint efforts aimed at addressing instability, terrorism, climate change and maritime security challenges across the continent.
A major focus of her remarks was the commitment made during the recent summit between the European Union and the African Union. Through the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, Europe plans to expand investments that create jobs, strengthen local industries and increase trade between African countries and European markets.
Kallas also stressed the importance of empowering Africa’s youth. She noted that the African continent possesses enormous potential and a rapidly growing young population that can drive innovation and economic transformation. To support this vision, the European Union is increasing educational exchanges through Erasmus+ programmes and expanding mobility opportunities for African citizens.
She warned delegates about misleading recruitment campaigns targeting young Africans with promises of employment or university opportunities linked to foreign conflicts. According to Kallas, genuine international cooperation should focus on empowering communities, creating opportunities and protecting lives rather than exploiting vulnerable people.
The address concluded with a hopeful vision for the future, as Kallas called for stronger cooperation at the multilateral level to build long-term peace and stability. She encouraged continued dialogue between Europe and Africa, saying that partnerships built on trust, investment and mutual respect can help secure a safer and more prosperous future for both continents.
Earlier in the session, parliamentary discussions focused on proposed amendments to legislative texts and the importance of maintaining clear and accurate language in official parliamentary procedures, reflecting a shared commitment to democratic accountability and transparent governance.
About Kaja Kallas
Kaja Kallas was born on June 18, 1977, and is an Estonian politician and diplomat currently serving as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy as well as Vice-President of the European Commission.
She previously made history as Estonia’s first female prime minister, serving from 2021 until 2024. Before assuming her current EU role, she also led the Estonian Reform Party and served as a member of both the Estonian parliament and the European Parliament. Trained as a lawyer specialising in European competition law, Kallas has built a reputation as a strong advocate for international cooperation, democratic governance and European unity.
