Togo is expanding its international partnerships by prioritizing high-value sectors. During a meeting in Lomé with Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel on July 15, President Faure Gnassingbé reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainable resource management.
The evolving relationship between Lomé and Luxembourg reflects a shift from traditional development aid toward mutually beneficial investments that align with Togo’s modernization goals. This strategic pivot underscores the West African nation’s ambition to leverage international partnerships for sustainable growth.
The visit by Xavier Bettel, which included in-depth discussions with Faure Gnassingbé, centered on the future of bilateral ties and shared global challenges. Reflecting on the talks, Bettel emphasized the depth of the partnership, stating, « We engaged in open and honest exchanges, as befits strong friendships. »
Three landmark agreements to drive Togo’s transformation
The highlight of the visit was the signing of three pivotal agreements designed to shape bilateral cooperation for years to come.
INCLURE Initiative: A funding program supporting local growth, efficient resource utilization, and the preservation of protected ecosystems. This project targets community development while ensuring environmental sustainability.
New Indicative Cooperation Program (PIC): A strategic framework outlining the priorities for Togo-Luxembourg collaboration, focusing on long-term impact across key sectors.
Togocyber+: A dedicated initiative to bolster Togo’s national cybersecurity capabilities, addressing the rising demands of a rapidly digitizing public administration and service sector.
These agreements mark a significant evolution in the bilateral relationship, moving beyond conventional aid toward high-impact projects that foster economic and institutional progress.
A growing partnership with measurable impact
While diplomatic ties between Togo and Luxembourg date back to the 1970s, the relationship has gained momentum since 2024 with renewed cooperation frameworks and the establishment of LuxDev’s development agency in Lomé in 2026.
Together, the two nations are implementing a portfolio of projects valued at 49.3 million euros (32.34 billion FCFA), spanning digital transition, forest landscape restoration, support for the École Polytechnique de Lomé, and natural heritage protection. This expanded collaboration reflects a shared commitment to delivering sustainable outcomes rather than short-term assistance.
Togo strengthens its diplomatic network
Beyond the signed agreements, this visit highlights Togo’s rising profile in West African diplomacy. By cultivating targeted partnerships with European allies like Luxembourg, Lomé is positioning itself to access specialized expertise and funding that align with its national priorities.
For Luxembourg, Togo represents a stable partner for long-term projects where governance, technological innovation, and sustainable development converge. The meeting between Faure Gnassingbé and Xavier Bettel underscores a shared vision: transforming bilateral cooperation into a catalyst for economic, institutional, and digital advancement for both nations.
