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

ACP-EU Research and Innovation Programme
The ACP-EU Programme to Strengthen Research and Innovation capacity in ACP countries targets public and private stakeholders with a comprehensive package of opportunities.

BELLA - Building the Europe Link to Latin America
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.

Policy and Regulation Initiative for Digital Africa (PRIDA)
The PRIDA programme aims to promote universally accessible and affordable broadband across the continent, unlocking the benefits of internet-based services for all

Smart Development Fund
The aim of the Smart Development Fund is to refine digital solutions to counter COVID-19 challenges in, and with, EU partner countries.
Latest news

International Partnerships Eurobarometer: peace and security top the list of perceived challenges
According to the latest Eurobarometer survey on international partnerships, EU citizens identify “peace and security” as the most pressing challenge facing partner countries. When asked to pick up to three options from a list, 40% chose “peace and security”.

The EU and OACPS call for swift ratification and implementation of the “Treaty of the High Seas”
The European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States welcome today’s signature of the BBNJ agreement (biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction), also known as “Treaty of the High Seas”.

Global Gateway: Commission announces Business Advisory Group
The European Commission announced 60 members and 10 observers of the Global Gateway Business Advisory Group. The new group gathers CEOs or senior executives of European companies and business associations. It will assist the European Commission in strengthening cooperation with the private sector.