The Global Gateway strategy aims to strengthen connections between Europe and the world and help partner countries address the digital divide and further develop a sustainable digital economy.
Digital technologies and services are proven enablers of sustainable development and inclusive growth. They can be key to improving lives even in the poorest countries, in particular by empowering women and girls, enhancing democratic governance and transparency, and boosting productivity and job creation.
Connectivity is also about infrastructure and connecting regions and cities. Building a road, a tunnel or a bridge to connect citizens to healthcare, markets, jobs and schools can radically improve the lives and livelihoods of rural communities. These connections will create new opportunities across entire regions. Poor infrastructure hampers a country’s growth and ability to trade in the global economy.
Programmes
The ACP-EU Programme to Strengthen Research and Innovation capacity in ACP countries targets public and private stakeholders with a comprehensive package of opportunities.
The BELLA Programme provides support for the long-term interconnectivity of European and Latin American research and education communities through ‘EllaLink’, a new 6,000 km submarine cable.
- Global Gateway - Areas of partnership
- Digital
The PRIDA programme aims to promote universally accessible and affordable broadband across the continent, unlocking the benefits of internet-based services for all
The aim of the Smart Development Fund is to refine digital solutions to counter COVID-19 challenges in, and with, EU partner countries.
The EU–LAC Digital Alliance provides a strategic framework that deepens cooperation across the full spectrum of digital and space issues.
- Global Gateway - Areas of partnership
- Digital
Latest news
The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic and developmental partnership with Ethiopia, as announced today by Jozef Síkela, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, during his keynote address at the Ethiopia Business Forum.
European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela will visit Ethiopia on 20 and 21 April 2026, opening the EU-Ethiopia Business Forum in Addis Ababa and meeting with government, business and international partners.
European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela represented the EU at the 21st Overseas Countries and Territories and EU Forum held in Aruba. The Forum marked a strategic shift in the partnership, towards structured investment and full integration into the Global Gateway strategy.
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