The Global Gateway at two: Implementing EU strategic ambitions

The Global Gateway, the European Union's global connectivity strategy, recently celebrated its two-year milestone. Initiated to reorient EU international cooperation in response to partner needs and geopolitical shifts, the strategy is scrutinized for its progress and challenges. The Global Gateway Forum, a recent event, showcased achievements, emphasizing the initiative's role in promoting EU external investment and providing an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. With about 160 flagship projects planned for 2023-2024, the Global Gateway seeks to bolster the EU's global influence.

This analysis delves into the strategy's evolution and its potential to align with geopolitical objectives. Achieving the €300 billion investment target is deemed vital for the EU's credibility. As the EU's flagship global connectivity strategy, the Global Gateway signals a significant reorientation in approaching international partners, particularly in Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. Emphasizing infrastructure and investment, the strategy aims to articulate EU interests and values more coherently. However, it necessitates a substantial transformation in business practices, urging a collective shift in development cooperation objectives and a comprehensive whole-of-government approach. The exploration encompasses narrative refinement, policy realignment, partner engagement strategies, and a revamped toolbox to facilitate the required changes.