Midrand, South Africa – Fatah Boutebik, head of the parliamentary group of the El-Moustakbal Front and member of the Pan-African Parliament, addressed the high-level parliamentary meeting between the Pan-African Parliament and the European Parliament held in Midrand, South Africa, yesterday, Saturday. Boutebik emphasized that the future of relations between the European and African Unions hinges on robust multilateralism and effective parliamentary cooperation that addresses the world’s rapidly evolving challenges.
Boutebik stated that relations between the two continents must transition from a “traditional partnership logic” to an “equitable partnership based on mutual respect and shared interests.” He argued that security, climate, migration, and digital transformation necessitate a new vision built on trust and regular dialogue between parliamentarians.
He called for deepening parliamentary diplomacy through joint monitoring mechanisms, experience sharing, and the formulation of unified recommendations that promote sustainable development, support peace and security, and protect human rights. Addressing the European Parliament delegation directly, Boutebik stressed that Africa is not seeking aid but a genuine strategic partnership based on productive investment, technology transfer, and market access. He criticized outdated approaches that have failed to deliver the desired results, stating that the success of the European “Global Gateway” initiative will not be measured by the amount of funding allocated but by its respect for African priorities.
Boutebik outlined a set of strategic priorities that Africa needs today, including food security and modern agriculture, renewable energy and hydrogen, digitalization and artificial intelligence, strategic cross-border infrastructure, health, education, and vocational training. He emphasized that supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and technology transfer are “not privileges but essential conditions for a lasting and successful partnership.”
He also proposed establishing a permanent consultation mechanism between the African Parliament and the European Parliament to ensure the monitoring of joint projects and overcome obstacles, based on a “win-win” principle that serves the stability of the Mediterranean and the Sahel, and addresses energy and migration challenges.
Boutebik concluded his address by affirming that Europe needs Africa as much as Africa needs Europe.
