Denmark wants to significantly expand its involvement in Africa and thereby also wants to counter the influence of China and Russia on the continent.
Presenting a new, comprehensive Africa strategy on Monday, the Danish government said that Denmark, like the European Union as a whole, needs to better respond 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 muscles” at the embassies in key countries such as Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana are also being strengthened, according to the Danish Foreign Ministry.
In contrast, the embassies in Burkina Faso and Mali will be closed after a series of military coups.
“We live in the African century,” said Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Development Minister Dan Jørgensen in the foreword to the strategy.
They said Africa’s geopolitical relevance has never been greater, given its growing population and economy, and equally growing self-confidence.
A stronger involvement of Germany and Europe in Africa also remains an important goal for the government in Berlin.
This does not only apply to the decades-long Chinese involvement on the continent, for example when it comes to securing so-called rare earth metals.
Germany and the EU want to become more independent in this area, especially in the expansion of renewable energy sources. Denmark, as a pioneer in wind energy, can be an important partner.
From a security policy point of view, Russian involvement in Africa is also very problematic for Berlin and Brussels.
