The European Commission and the World Bank Group are deepening their collaboration to drive a new generation of connectivity projects. They have focused in key sectors such as energy, transport, and digital infrastructure across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean. An initial pipeline of 18 high-impact projects has been identified, chosen for their ability to attract private investment, generate jobs, and promote regional integration.
The partnership aims to ensure that projects move from planning to financing and ultimately deliver jobs, services, and tangible results. According to World Bank President Ajay Banga, job creation in emerging economies not only expands local opportunities but also fuels global demand. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the partnership will maximize private investment and enable efficient governance of joint projects.
The objectives include promoting sustainable economic growth, strengthening local private sectors, and leveraging natural resources and young talent in partner countries. The initiative focuses on three pillars: investing in human and physical foundations (education, healthcare, infrastructure), fostering business-friendly environments, and supporting the private sector with capital, guarantees, and risk insurance.
Global Gateway combines investment in high-quality, environmentally sustainable infrastructure with regulatory support, skills development, training, and investment locally. Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting equitable partnerships that enhance the strategic autonomy and resilience of both Europe and partner countries.
Reference
World Bank Group. (2025, October 8). Global Gateway Forum: the European Commission and World Bank Group Deepen Partnership for Infrastructure and Jobs. World Bank. https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2025/10/08/global-gateway-forum-the-european-commission-and-world-bank-group-deepen-partnership-for-infrastructure-and-jobs