Europe Day: A Strengthened Partnership between the European Union and Burundi

On 8 May 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation graced the Europe Day celebrations with his presence during a reception hosted by Ms. Delphine Van Landschoot Wimmer, Chargée d’Affaires of the European Union, on behalf of Ambassador Elisabetta Pietrobon.
In her address, Ms. Van Landschoot Wimmer reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to a long term, transparent approach focused on the well being of populations. She underscored the EU’s role in sustainable development, peace and security, while fully respecting national ownership.
She also highlighted the robustness of the partnership with Burundi, built on shared values and a common vision. This partnership materialises through concrete projects in strategic sectors such as energy and infrastructure. Currently, EU investments in Burundi amount to €384 million in grants and loans, aimed at creating jobs, strengthening climate resilience and opening up new economic prospects, all while upholding social and environmental standards.
Taking the floor, Minister Edouard Bizimana welcomed the significance of the celebration and recalled the attachment of the European peoples to the achievements of the 1950 Schuman Declaration. He reaffirmed the vitality of the Burundi EU partnership, which he described as dynamic and mutually beneficial.
The Minister expressed the wish to further consolidate this cooperation by aligning it with the priorities of the “Burundi Vision 2040 2060”. He also stressed the imperative of dialogue and multilateralism to address global challenges, notably climate change and geopolitical tensions. Finally, he reiterated Burundi’s commitment to a shared AU EU vision founded on respect for sovereignty and equality among partners.