Spain–Togo relations
Spain–Togo relations are the bilateral relations between Spain and Togo. Togo does not have an embassy in Madrid, but its embassy in Paris is accredited to Spain, and it maintains a consulate in Barcelona. Spain also does not have an embassy in Togo; its embassy in Accra, Ghana, is accredited to Togo, and it maintains a consulate in Lomé.
Diplomatic relations
Bilateral relations between Spain and Togo are considered cordial and friendly, with no significant disputes, although interactions have generally been limited to occasional visits by officials from both countries.
Relations were revitalized with the official visit to Lomé by former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero in June 2009, accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, the Minister of Justice, and the Director of AECID. During the visit, Memoranda of Understanding on political consultations and development cooperation were signed, providing a foundation for deepening bilateral relations.
In July 2014, Togo's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, visited Madrid, giving new impetus to bilateral relations, including in the commercial sector, where opportunities exist for Spanish companies, particularly in infrastructure and housing construction.
In addition to supporting ongoing democratic reforms and promoting the presence of Spanish companies, other areas for potential development in bilateral relations include human rights dialogue, development cooperation, and collaboration on migration and maritime security.
Economic relations
Economic and commercial relations between Spain and Togo strengthened significantly during the 2010s. Spanish exports to Togo doubled in 2011 and 2012.
Although Spanish exports to the West African country remain modest, they increased at a rapid pace. Between 2010 and 2011, exports rose from €17 million to €70 million, and this figure doubled again in 2012 to €155 million. In 2013, Spanish exports continued to grow, reaching a record €213 million. The most recent available figure from 2015 shows a decline in exports to €123 million. Togo ranks 96th among Spain's trading partners.
See also
- Foreign relations of Spain
- Foreign relations of Togo
References
Togo Category:Bilateral relations of Togo