About

A stronger and more equal partnership between Africa and Europe has never felt more critical. With the blow dealt by Covid-19 to both continents and the inequalities it highlighted, we need to find common solutions to global challenges, from pandemics and climate change to migration. New forms of cross-border cooperation are needed – and fast. ODI hosts a ‘Green Talk’ ahead of the High-level European Union-Africa Green Investment Forum co-organised by the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Investment Bank. We explore how cities can support the green transition and reinvigorate the partnership between Africa and Europe in the lead up to the long-awaited AU-EU Summit. Cities are decisive players to accelerate the shift to low-carbon and climate-resilient economies needed to sustain the green recovery. Their practical approach to cooperation across borders has much to offer policy-makers at the national and regional level. African and European mayors are already working together to meet these challenges. Our discussion highlights innovative initiatives and city-to-city partnerships, brokered by the Mayors Dialogue on Growth and Solidarity, which harness human mobility within and between Africa and Europe to tackle core shared challenges and find solutions.