Speech by EU Ambassador to Tanzania at Europe Day 2026

Good evening, distinguished guests, dear partners, dear friends,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you all tonight as we celebrate Europe Day 2026 together here in Tanzania.

This occasion is always special for us. Not only because it marks the foundation of the European Union, but because it brings us to reflect on what we have built and where we are going next.

Allow me to warmly welcome our guest of honour, Honorable Judith Salvio Kapinga, Minister of Industry and Trade, as well as representatives of the government, the diplomatic corps, the private sector, civil society, and the young innovators and entrepreneurs who are with us this evening. The European community in Tanzania keeps growing. 

A special welcome as well to the Ambassadors of EU Member States present here tonight. We are 27 countries, 13 of which are represented in Tanzania.

Together, we stand as Team Europe. United in Diversity.

We speak different languages and have different histories. But our history has taught us that working together, even when sometimes disagreeing, is crucial to achieve our common objective – a peaceful and prosperous Europe. And in today’s world, that ability matters more than ever.

Because if there is one thing we are reminded of, it is that cooperation is not always easy, but it is the only acceptable way forward.

Towards the end of last year, Tanzania went through deeply difficult moments that affected many across the country.

In such times, the importance of speaking the truth, seeking accountability and justice, and being open to dialogue becomes essential in order to be able to heal and move forward together. The European Union is a symbol of how such a process can succeed. 

After several devastating wars, European countries made a deliberate choice for reconciliation, to build peace through cooperation, and to create a future based on shared rules and values. After the terrible experience of a fascist dictator, it was clear to all that the future must be built on democracy, respect for human rights, and rule of law.

Democracy is not always perfect. It can be slow or complex. But it is the best system we have to make all voices heard and to develop best solutions for all.

We believe in a rules-based international order worldwide and in long-term partnerships with countries that create stability and opportunity.

Ladies and gentlemen, this year, the motto of our Europe day focuses on an essential driver of a prosperous future.

Our theme for 2026 is: “Gateway to Growth.” At its core is a simple idea: supporting entrepreneurs, start-ups, and businesses to grow into fully-fledged economic actors.

Growth is not only about large-scale investment or infrastructure. It is also about people and opportunity and about creating the conditions for innovation to thrive and be sustainable. Through the Global Gateway, we invest in infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, and connectivity, but also in people and businesses. Because economic transformation must be inclusive and deliver tangible benefits to citizens.

Here in Tanzania, we see this already taking shape. The companies with us tonight – which are and have been supported by the EU – show what “Gateway to Growth” means in practice.I encourage you to visit their booths, located just behind me in the annex, engage with their teams, and learn more about the ideas and innovations they are bringing forward.

Through EU-supported programmes, we strengthen this kind of entrepreneurship, helping businesses become investment-ready and to access markets. And they need a stable and transparent business environment. Because when businesses grow, economies grow and people benefit. This is the essence of our partnership. We will continue to support economic development, innovation, and opportunities, especially for young people.

Before I conclude, allow me to share a more personal note.

For me, this Europe Day is also a bittersweet moment. I arrived in Tanzania nearly three years ago, and in a blink of an eye, my time here will already be over end August. I would therefore like to say a personal word of thanks to the many people that have made my time here such a positive experience.

It has been a privilege to serve here and to engage with so many of you. I will carry these experiences with me and remain a strong advocate for the people who make this partnership meaningful. So tonight, let us celebrate the many people across Tanzania and Europe who make this partnership meaningful every day.

Asanteni sana.