The European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Policy said today that Europe is Africa's "reliable partner" vis-à-vis Russia and that the war in Ukraine harms the continent and the rest of the world.

In an opinion article published in the Kenyan newspaper Daily Nation, quoted by Lusa, Josep Borrell stressed that Africa is a "vibrant continent" that is forging its future through digital transformation, more efficient and sustainable agriculture, building infrastructure, strengthening security, and investing in its youth.

"For this reason, we propose that Europe be Africa's partner of choice," said the high representative, who begins a trip to Mozambique today, pointing out that "European investment in Africa is more than five times that of China."

However, he added, the future of the world is overshadowed by the "devastating consequences of Russia's war against Ukraine on food security, energy prices, debt and insecurity."

The war affects everyone, but "Africa is one of its main collateral victims," said the head of European diplomacy, admitting that "some African countries look at this war from a different perspective" than the EU.

The head of EU diplomacy begins today a two-day visit to Mozambique, where he will meet with the President, Filipe Nyusi, and deliver non-warlike equipment to support the fighting in Cabo Delgado.

On Friday, Borrell will visit the European Union Military Training Mission in the country, at the Katembe training camp, "where he will witness the handover ceremony of equipment funded by the European Peace Facility."

The mission supports the training of rapid reaction units of Mozambique's Armed Defense Forces and has 119 members from 12 countries.

Portugal takes command of the mission and is the country with the largest contingent, currently 68 soldiers from the three branches of the armed forces and GNR. (Lusa/Noam)