Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen: ‘We live in the century of Africa’

Denmark intends to significantly expand its engagement in Africa, also aiming to counteract the influence of China and Russia on the continent.

The Danish government, when presenting a new comprehensive Africa strategy on Monday, stated that Denmark, like the European Union as a whole, must become better at responding to the wishes and priorities of African countries.

According to the strategy, equal partnerships with African states are a central component. The strategy covers trade, migration, conflict resolution and adaptation to the effects of climate change.

As part of the new orientation, Denmark is opening embassies in Senegal, Tunisia and Rwanda. The “diplomatic muscle” at the embassies in important countries such as Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana will also be strengthened, the Danish Foreign Ministry said.

By contrast, the embassies in Burkina Faso and Mali will be closed following a series of military coups.

“We live in the century of Africa,” explained Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Minister for Development Cooperation Dan Jørgensen, in the foreword of the strategy.

They said that Africa’s geopolitical relevance has never been greater in view of growing populations and economies as well as an equally growing self-confidence.

A stronger commitment by Germany and Europe in Africa remains an important goal for the government in Berlin as well.

This is not only in light of decades of Chinese involvement on the continent, for example, when it comes to securing so-called rare earth elements.

Here, Germany and the EU aim to become more independent, especially in connection with the expansion of renewable energy – a project where Denmark, as a pioneer in wind power, could be an important partner.

From a security policy perspective, Russian involvement in Africa is also highly problematic for Berlin and Brussels.