NTU took part in the second edition of the Global Gateway Forum, held on 9-10 October 2025 in Brussels. Following the success of the inaugural event in 2023, this year’s Forum gathered 12 Heads of State and Government and over 70 Ministers from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, alongside representatives from the private sector, international organisations, and civil society. Discussions focused on diversifying supply chains, strengthening strategic autonomy, and deepening cooperation in key areas such as: digital connectivity and sovereignty, energy transition, transport infrastructure, and sustainable resource management.

At the opening, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented her vision for strengthened partnerships in a rapidly changing global economy. She highlighted the EU’s leadership through Global Gateway as its external investment strategy, and noted that the initiative has already exceeded expectations with over €306 billion in just four years, reaching its 2027 target well ahead of schedule.  A new ambition to surpass €400 billion by 2027 was also introduced, underscoring the EU’s commitment to partnerships based on respect, shared interests, and long-term collaboration.

Examples of Global Gateway’s impact showcased at the Forum included the Solidarity Lanes connecting Ukraine, Moldova, and EU Member States, the Lobito Corridor in Central Africa linking Angola with Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and major digital and energy projects in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. These initiatives demonstrate Europe’s focus on sustainable, transparent, and mutually beneficial investments, enhancing local resilience and long-term value.

The Forum served as a platform for exploring innovative strategies enabling to scale up Global Gateway investments in partner countries. It provided a solid insight on the new approach to strengthening sustainable and inclusive infrastructure and partnerships worldwide.