The United Republic of Tanzania and the European Union (EU) held their 2024 Partnership Dialogue on December 10, 2024, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam.
Co-chaired by Honourable Cosato D. Chumi (MP), Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, and Ambassador Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service, the dialogue focused on strengthening cooperation in governance, trade, regional integration, and security.
The event marked a milestone as the first dialogue under the Samoa Agreement, reaffirming decades of partnership based on shared values of democracy, good governance, and peaceful international relations. Discussions underscored Tanzania’s commitment to holding free and fair elections in 2025 and advancing regional peace and stability.
The EU emphasized its alignment with Tanzania’s development priorities, including the National Five-Year Development Plan and Vision 2050, which focus on inclusive growth and sustainable development. The dialogue acknowledged ongoing EU financial support under the Neighbourhood Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) amounting to EUR 726 million (TZS 2 trillion) for 2021-2027, alongside bilateral contributions of EUR 1.2 billion from EU Member States for 2021-2024.
Honourable Cosato D. Chumi reiterated Tanzania’s dedication to fostering development and stability, stating, “This dialogue highlights the depth of our partnership and our shared commitment to democratic principles, regional peace, and economic growth.”
Ambassador Rita Laranjinha noted, “The European Union values its longstanding relationship with Tanzania and remains dedicated to supporting its vision for sustainable development and regional integration. Together, we aim to address shared challenges and seize opportunities.”
In addition to governance, the dialogue addressed trade and investment within the East African Community (EAC). Both parties agreed to strengthen efforts to resolve trade and investment challenges and enhance regional economic integration. The EU reaffirmed its support for Tanzania’s leadership in promoting stability and growth within the EAC.
Security cooperation was another key focus, with discussions on maritime security, counterterrorism, and regional stability. The EU recognized Tanzania’s contributions to peace in the Great Lakes region and Northern Mozambique and expressed its readiness to support these efforts through mechanisms like the European Peace Facility.
Both sides agreed to hold partnership dialogues regularly to discuss mutual priorities and deepen their cooperation.
The European Union has been a significant partner in Tanzania’s development, contributing to key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. Over the past decade, EU investments totaling EUR 3 billion (TZS 8.3 trillion) have created jobs and generated tax revenues, while initiatives like the Global Gateway strategy continue to foster sustainable growth and regional connectivity.
