On 1 June 2026, European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela delivered an opening speech at the Africa Smart Mobility Forum in Prague, defending the Global Gateway investment strategy against domestic criticism and urging European companies to submit projects for support. Síkela described Global Gateway as 'one of the most effective geopolitical instruments Europe has,' citing its role in strengthening stability, economic security, and market access for European firms.
Síkela directly addressed recent remarks by senior Czech government officials who had called the cooperation with developing countries and Global Gateway 'insignificant.' He countered by highlighting the delivery of Czech trains to Uzbekistan, a deal he said was secured through Global Gateway financial tools from the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, and the Czech Export Guarantee and Insurance Corporation. Síkela noted that the same officials later celebrated the deal as 'the biggest of the last two decades.'
The speech focused on Africa as the EU's 'natural partner' under Global Gateway, with over €120 billion mobilised since 2021 under the Africa-Europe Investment Package. Síkela pointed to concrete projects: the Train Express Régional in Senegal, built by Alstom, carrying over 100,000 passengers daily; the Lobito Corridor in Angola, involving European companies such as Africa Global Logistics, Mota-Engil, Trafigura, and Vecturis; and airport upgrades in Burundi and Liberia led by Brussels Airlines. He also mentioned the newly launched Global Gateway Investment Hub, designed as a single entry point for companies to propose projects and access Team Europe support.
Síkela emphasised that Global Gateway investments adhere to high environmental standards and involve civil society, citing the example of People in Need working with communities along the Lobito Corridor to ensure local farmers and small businesses benefit. He framed these values as a competitive advantage rather than a burden.
the Investment Hub is already operational, and Síkela called on the European private sector to submit strong projects. However, no new numerical targets, deadlines, or budget figures were announced. The policy orientation is clearly pro-active and expansionary, defending and promoting Global Gateway as a key geopolitical and economic tool, with a conciliatory but firm tone towards domestic critics and a partnership-oriented approach towards African countries.
European companies (especially in transport, infrastructure, and logistics) stand to gain new business opportunities and access to financing through the Investment Hub, but may face compliance costs with environmental and social standards. African governments and populations benefit from infrastructure and connectivity, though local economic displacement or dependency could occur if projects are not well-integrated. EU taxpayers fund the €120 billion package, with returns expected in strategic access and economic security. Civil society organisations gain a formal role in project design, but may face capacity constraints to engage effectively. The overall impact is moderate, reinforcing an existing strategy rather than introducing a paradigm shift.