31st Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – Parliamentary Perspectives

Honorable. Jaak Madison emphasizes the growing geopolitical importance of Africa due to its vast natural resources and strategic value in global competition. He notes that Africa holds about 80% of the world’s cobalt, significant lithium reserves, gas, and other minerals essential for batteries, electric vehicles, and green energy technologies. He highlights that China has secured major influence and control over many of these resources through infrastructure investments and mining agreements.

He explains that while China became a preferred partner for many African countries by offering investment without political conditions, concerns are rising about long-term dependency and expansion of Chinese influence. He stresses that Europe and Western nations must strengthen partnerships with African countries through fair economic, technological, and security cooperation.

He also points to ongoing instability in countries like Sudan and emphasizes the need for strategic engagement to reduce foreign influence, support stability, and promote mutually beneficial development. He concludes that Africa represents a major opportunity for cooperation, and stronger collaboration between Europe, the United States, and African nations will be essential for future global security and economic stability.