OACPS-EU Assembly Opens in Brussels with Strong Calls for True Global Partnership

Lawmakers representing regions across Africa, the Caribbean, the Pacific, and Europe have converged in Brussels, Belgium, to emphasize the urgent need for reinforced multilateralism during times of global tension. The high-level discussions kicked off during the opening session of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States – European Union (OACPS-EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly.

Addressing the assembly at the European Parliament, Uganda’s Deputy Speaker and OACPS-EU Co-President, Thomas Tayebwa, stressed that international cooperation must evolve past mere rhetoric. He called for relationships firmly anchored in genuine equality, mutual respect, and shared solidarity.

Tayebwa focused heavily on reshaping economic and environmental strategies, urging for a restructured partnership that brings direct, local advantages to member nations. He underscored the importance of securing investments, fostering local value addition, enhancing skills development, and creating decent jobs across member states.

The opening ceremony also featured prominent global leaders, including Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and Timor-Leste President H.E. Jose Ramos-Horta, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, and European Parliament Vice-President Younous Omarjee. These leaders echoed the sentiment that robust parliamentary dialogue remains essential for overcoming complex international hurdles.

Co-chaired by Tayebwa and EU counterpart H.E. Francisco Assis, the ongoing parliamentary sessions aim to produce practical, life-improving outcomes for the nearly two billion citizens represented within the OACPS-EU alliance.

Read more details on the Parliament of Uganda.