The European Union has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Cape Verde during a high-level visit to key development projects on Sal Island, highlighting the bloc’s growing commitment to the archipelago’s sustainable future.
Myriam Ferran, Deputy Director-General for International Partnerships at the European Commission, toured the construction site of Porto da Palmeira and the renewable energy facilities of Cabeólica on Thursday.
The visit aimed to evaluate progress on initiatives financed by the EU under its Global Gateway strategy — a flagship investment plan focused on sustainable infrastructure.
Ferran was accompanied by Cape Verde’s Minister for Investment Promotion and Business Development, Eurico Monteiro, who welcomed the EU’s close oversight and praised the longstanding cooperation.
“This visit serves as an important opportunity to take stock of what we’ve achieved and confirm that EU resources are being wisely and effectively used,” Monteiro stated.
He emphasized that the focus areas of the EU’s investments — particularly renewable energy and the blue economy — are vital for Cape Verde’s development and long-term resilience.
Ferran underlined the significance of renewable energy in the EU’s strategy for global sustainable connectivity.
“Our goal is to support Cape Verdean and European companies to invest in clean energy and to boost production and usage of sustainable electricity in the country,” she said.
A key highlight of the visit was the Cabeólica wind energy project, which Ferran described as “emblematic” of EU-Cape Verde cooperation.
She noted the EU’s support in the installation of grid-stabilizing battery systems on Sal Island, a move expected to enhance reliable access to renewable power.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is playing a central role by providing sovereign loans for infrastructure and private financing for enterprises such as Cabeólica.
This public-private financing model, Ferran said, is “a concrete example” of how the EU can catalyze sustainable development.
Her visit precedes the EU–Cape Verde Global Gateway Investment Forum, set to take place on Friday in Santa Maria.
The event aims to strengthen trade and investment ties and highlight the enduring partnership between Brussels and Praia.
Cape Verde’s government and the EU delegation expressed mutual satisfaction with the implementation of ongoing projects.
Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to shared development goals that prioritize clean energy, economic resilience, and long-term prosperity.
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