Finance minister, EU Ambassador review dev’t projects, funding.

The audience focused on projects being implemented with EU support and future cooperation in priority development sectors. 

Figures released by MINFI showed that the EU has mobilised over €953 million, equivalent to about 626 billion FCFA, in grants for development projects in Cameroon since cooperation between the two sides began. 

Another €244 million, approximately 160 billion FCFA, it was disclosed, has been earmarked in EU grants for Cameroon under the 2021-2027 partnership framework. 

MINFI explained that the cooperation covers several sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, the private sector, governance, peace and security.

Among the projects highlighted by MINFI is the 420-megawatt Nachtigal hydroelectric facility, which has increased the country's electricity generation capacity. 

Speaking in a recent interview with Cameroon Tribune as he prepares to leave the country, Châtaigner said relations between Cameroon and the EU are solid. 

He said more than 50 years of cooperation has helped establish a framework for engagement between the two sides. Châtaigner added that differences had sometimes emerged between the two partners. 

However, he said these had been addressed through dialogue, transparency and mutual respect. The diplomat identified energy, transport, digital development and skills as some of the areas where cooperation has expanded over the past three years. 

Châtaigner also cited the bridge over the Logone River as another infrastructure project. He also pointed to plans for a bridge over the Ntem River to improve connectivity with Equatorial Guinea.

Other areas of cooperation, the official noted, include the protection of Congo Basin forests, climate change and energy transition. 

Investment, trade cooperation

The outgoing ambassador said the EU's Global Gateway strategy has placed greater emphasis on investments in infrastructure and economic development.

He cited the Cameroon-EU Business Week held in Yaounde in June as part of efforts to strengthen economic ties and create opportunities for businesses.

“The recent organisation of our Cameroon-EU Business Week in Yaounde illustrated this new dynamic: moving from a traditional cooperation relationship to a genuine economic partnership based on investment, innovation and the creation of opportunities for Cameroonian stakeholders,” Châtaigner said. 

According to him, the Economic Partnership Agreement, EPA, has maintained preferential access for Cameroonian products to the European market. 

He said EU support also targets competitiveness, economic diversification and the development of local value chains. Cocoa, coffee and cotton, Châtaigner added, are among the sectors identified for greater local processing and production of higher-value exports.

During the August 11 audience, Minister Motaze acknowledged the EU's contribution to development projects in the country. He also wished Châtaigner success as the diplomat prepares to leave the country at the end of his mission.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3878 of Friday August 14, 2026