U.S. and European Union Strengthen Cooperation on the Lobito Corridor and Regional Stability
U.S. and EU Renew Support for Lobito Corridor to Boost Peace, Trade and Minerals in Central Africa
The United States and the European Commission reaffirmed their “joint commitment to promoting peace, security, and economic growth” in Africa’s Great Lakes region on Thursday, in a statement focused on the Lobito Corridor and investment in Central Africa.
Published by the U.S. State Department, the declaration emphasizes Washington and Brussels’ intention to “create the conditions necessary for increased American and European investment in the region,” and stresses that economic development remains “the cornerstone of lasting stability.”
Described as a “transformative” infrastructure initiative, the Lobito Corridor is designed to link the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the Angolan port of Lobito on the Atlantic Coast.
The corridor is considered essential for strengthening supply chains for critical minerals, enhancing regional connectivity, and driving sustainable economic growth.
It is also expected to generate new trade opportunities between Central Africa, the United States, and Europe.
Both partners say they are working closely with the private sector and regional governments to rehabilitate and modernize the railway line, aiming to make it a catalyst for development across the region.
They also acknowledge ongoing discussions between private companies and the Congolese government regarding investment proposals for the DRC segment of the project.
Washington and Brussels add that they are prepared to examine financing options to align future investments in the DRC with the rehabilitation underway in Angola, in order to maximize efficiency and ensure the project’s success.
The statement concludes by underscoring the commitment of the United States and the European Commission to remain “fully aligned and coordinated” in their support for the corridor, which they view as a tool for securing more transparent supply chains and encouraging sustainable investment throughout the region.
