Denmark has set itself the task of strengthening cooperation with African countries to counteract the growing influence of Russia and China on the continent.
This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark
Foreign Minister Lars Rasmussen and Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy Dan Jørgensen presented a new strategy that prioritizes equitable partnership with African states.
As part of this strategy, Denmark plans to open new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, and to strengthen its diplomatic missions in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana. At the same time, due to the unstable situation in the Sahel caused by a series of military coups, the embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso will be closed.
Africa is gaining increasing significance in global politics and economics. It is expected that by 2050, a quarter of the world’s population will live on the continent, and every third young person in the world will be African. In this context, Denmark aims to strengthen trade and investment ties with African countries and to develop cooperation in ecology and education.
Foreign Minister Lars Rasmussen emphasized the importance of African countries orienting themselves towards cooperation with Europe rather than with the East. According to him, Denmark and the EU should offer an attractive alternative to the influence of China and Russia by investing in the African economy and fostering mutual understanding with the continent.
To this end, Denmark plans to strengthen its investment funds and reduce the cost of consulting services for Danish companies operating in Africa. Special attention will be given to environmental projects, particularly water technologies, where Denmark has significant expertise.
In addition to economic cooperation, the strategy includes intensified efforts to combat illegal migration from Africa. Denmark intends to support the EU's migration partnership and allocate significant funds to prevent illegal migration and strengthen border control in African countries.
As part of cultural exchange and strengthening intercultural dialogue between Denmark and African countries, the government plans to allocate additional funds for cultural initiatives in Africa. This is expected to foster strong ties between the two regions.
Denmark is also considering expanding its presence in countries where it was previously underrepresented and plans to increase the number of diplomats in Africa by 10 by 2026. These measures aim to enhance Denmark’s and the EU’s influence in Africa and to build a more solid foundation for future cooperation with African countries.
