Agenda

GMT +1

Master of Ceremonies
DAY 1 – Tuesday, July 18th, 2023
Welcome coffee
Opening Remarks

Vídeos

António Calçada de SáJosé Manuel Durão BarrosoCátia BatistaMiguel Pinto Luz
Digital Transformation: Greater integration into a global digital ecosystem

Vídeos

KeynotePannel

 
Digital transformation has become a critical catalyst for economic growth and development. Europe and Africa, recognizing the immense potential of digital technologies, have embarked on a journey to enhance their integration into the global digital ecosystem.

Together both continents should accelerate digital transformation efforts by leveraging the power of technology and connectivity, unlock new opportunities and aim to bridge the digital divide.

Efforts are underway to strengthen broadband networks, expand internet access, and improve digital literacy. This investment in reliable and affordable connectivity allows Europe and Africa to enable collaboration, trade, and knowledge exchange, fostering economic growth and reducing inequalities.

Supporting start-ups, incubation programs and promoting formation in digital skills is crucial for both regions to create synergies, in a scenario that enhances the growth of a dynamic digital ecosystem. This status quo will allow young entrepreneurs and innovators to take advantage of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchains and the Internet of Things, to develop innovative solutions to common challenges.

Through collaboration and cooperation, the EU and African nations are embracing the transformative power of the digital age, unlocking new opportunities for their citizens and fostering a prosperous future for both continents.

Networking
Green transformation: necessity and economic opportunity for bringing Europe and Africa closer

Vídeos

Duarte Cordeiro (Keynote)Abraão Vicente (Keynote)Pannel

 
The urgency of addressing climate change and transitioning towards a sustainable future has never been more evident. Europe and Africa, recognizing the pressing need for a green transformation, are coming together to establish a closer partnership centered around environmental sustainability. This joint effort not only addresses the imperative of mitigating climate change but also presents a significant two-sided economic opportunity.

Europe can support Africa in its quest for sustainable development with investment that will fully take african countries to the pinnacle of their vast renewable energy potential. This progress will enable the development of clean energy sources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

In partnership with Europe, Africa can access technical expertise, financial support and partnerships that facilitate the deployment of renewable energy infrastructure. This not only helps to bridge the energy access deficit, but also presents economic opportunities such as job creation and attracting investments in the renewable energy sector.

The Green Transformation brings Europe and Africa closer together in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Through knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and policy alignment, this partnership will contribute to a greener, more resilient, and prosperous future for both regions.

Lunch Break
Quality education through cooperation on research and innovation

Vídeos

Yaw Osei Adutwum (Keynote)Vivian Onano (Keynote)Pannel

 

International cooperation in education and research empowers Europe and Africa to face their common challenges and promotes the sustainable development of both continents.

 

There is a huge window of opportunity to invest in quality education, with a special focus on digital literacy, that follows the values of inclusion and fulfils the needs and ambitions of all children and teenagers, the ones who will drive the future onwards. Developing the education sector is also a fundamental path to teach, train, and learn, to promote the knowledge to find solutions to adapt to climate change and weather extremes, tackle pollution, protect people, the environment and biodiversity, promote ocean governance and ensure sustainable agri-food systems.

 

It is of utmost importance to establish close ties to share knowledge and boost collaboration in research, investigation, and innovation with the promotion of international academic mobility of students, teachers and researchers.

 

Investing in education, in a better and more inclusive education, is investing in a better future. Enable strategic partnerships and joint research projects through exchange programmes between higher education institutions will drive Europe and Africa to a significant social, scientific and technological progress.
Strengthening health systems: manufacturing and access to vaccines, medicines and health technologies

Vídeos

Maria da Graça Carvalho (Keynote)Silvia Lutucuta (Keynote)Pannel

 

The global COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical importance of strong health systems and equitable access to vaccines, medicines, and health technologies, around the world. Europe and Africa have recognized the urgent need for collaboration and joint efforts to strengthen their health systems.

 

Europe is committed to support Africa in manufacturing and accessing essential health products, ensuring global well-being. Europe has strong manufacturing capabilities in vaccines, medicines and health technologies. Sharing technical expertise and establishing partnerships can help Africa build sustainable production facilities.

 

This collaboration will strengthen Africa’s self-sufficiency and resilience in times of crisis and enable an effective response to emerging health challenges.

 

Equal access to life-saving vaccines, medicines, and health technologies is also crucial for achieving global health equity.

 

Europe’s commitment to supporting Africa in building local manufacturing capacities and improving access to essential health products reflects a shared vision of equitable and resilient health systems.

 

Through collaboration and partnerships, both continents can enhance their response to present and future health challenges, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of their populations.
Wrap-up & Closing Remarks

Vídeos

Pedro Reis
Cocktail
DAY 2 – Wednesday, July 19, 2023
Master of Ceremonies

Welcome coffee
Opening Remarks

Vídeos

António Calçada de Sá
Supporting sustainable financing for growth

Vídeos

Filipe Santos Costa (Keynote)Pannel

 

The global community is increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainable financing for inclusive and resilient economic growth. In the context of Africa and Europe, fostering strong partnerships and implementing effective mechanisms for sustainable financing is crucial to unlock the full potential of both continents. The European Union (EU) has taken significant steps to support this goal through its investment package and commitment to a prosperous EU-Africa Alliance.

 

This Investment Package, as outlined by the European Commission, aims to enhance cooperation and create opportunities for sustainable development and investment between Africa and Europe. With the mobilization of financial resources and facilitating investments, the EU seeks to address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the dynamic African market. Supporting sustainable financing for growth also involves strengthening partnerships and collaboration between European and African stakeholders. The EU actively engages with African governments, regional organizations, and the private sector to promote dialogue, foster trust, and align priorities. By enhancing coordination and leveraging the expertise and resources of both continents, the EU and Africa can create an enabling environment for sustainable financing, investment, and growth.

 

This collaborative approach not only benefits Africa but also presents opportunities for European businesses and investors to engage in mutually beneficial partnerships. Through sustained investment, efforts and shared commitment, Africa and Europe can build bridges towards a prosperous and resilient future.
Networking break
Opportunities and challenges of internationalization and EU-Africa cross-border trade

Vídeos

Rita Laranjinha (Keynote)Sérgio Pimenta (Keynote)Pannel

 

One of the key opportunities of internationalization and EU-Africa cross-border trade is the potential for increased market access. With the expansion of trade networks and removal of trade barriers,
countries can tap into new consumer bases and diversify their export destinations which can lead Europe and Africa to economic expansion, job creation, and increased foreign investment, benefiting both regions involved.

 

Internationalization allows the exchange of knowledge, technology, and best practices. Through collaboration and sharing of expertise, countries can enhance their productive capacities and improve the quality of products and services.

 

However, EU-Africa cross-border trade also poses significant challenges. One major obstacle is the complex regulatory and legal frameworks that governments trade between different countries and regions. Divergent standards, customs procedures, and administrative requirements can create barriers to trade and increase transaction costs. Harmonizing regulations and simplifying procedures are essential for facilitating and promoting smooth cross-border trade.
Lunch Break
Connecting Africa and Europe through sustainable infrastructure and transport

Vídeos

Paulo Gomes (Keynote)Pannel


Connecting Africa and Europe through sustainable infrastructure and transport is a transformative initiative that holds immense potential for economic integration, social development, and environmental sustainability. The investment in robust infrastructures and efficient transport systems between the two continents will strengthen their ties and unlock a wide range of opportunities.

 

Well-developed transport networks, including roads, railways and ports, enable the seamless movement of goods, promoting increased trade volumes and market access for businesses on both continents. This stimulates economic activity, attracts investment and generates employment opportunities, while also contributing to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods.

 

Furthermore, sustainable infrastructure and transport systems promote regional integration and cooperation. Increasing connectivity between African nations and European countries provides an ideal opportunity for the exchange of ideas, knowledge and cultural diversity. Collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, telecommunications and digital connectivity can enable the sharing of best practices, encourage innovation and promote cross-border partnerships.

 

By investing in well-designed infrastructure, promoting efficient transport systems, and embracing sustainable practices, both continents can create a foundation for inclusive growth and shared prosperity. With strategic planning, collaborative efforts, and a commitment to sustainability, the vision of a connected and sustainable Africa-Europe corridor can become a reality.
Foreign Affairs

Vídeos

João Gomes Cravinho
Cultural Moment

Vídeos

Cultural Moment
Closing Remarks

Vídeos

António Calçada de Sá
H.E. the President of the Portuguese Republic and H.E. the President of THE Ghana REPUBLIC

Vídeos

Dialogue

Speakers & Moderators