Last updated in October 2009
Relations between Germany and Cape Verde are friendly.
Since the Republic of Cape Verde gained its independence, Germany has made available approximately EUR 100 million to the country under Financial and Technical Cooperation. In addition, Germany contributes a large share of multilateral aid. Measured in per-capita terms of German aid, Cape Verde has been a major recipient country of German development cooperation. Following Germany’s decision to reduce the number of recipients and in view of the fact that Cape Verde no longer belongs to the group of the world’s poorest countries, development cooperation with Cape Verde has been phased out.
Technical Cooperation comprises municipal development in Fogo and Brava, artisanal fishing (FOPESCA), basic education, vocational and technical education and family planning. Traditionally, projects have concentrated on the islands of Fogo and Brava. The FOPESCA project, however, was extended to include other islands (Santiago, Maio, Boa Vista and Sal). On account of its microfinance component, its outreach extended beyond the fisheries sector. The basic-education project also includes other islands. A nature conservation project began in the crater on the island of Fogo in early 2001.
The construction of the airports on the islands of Fogo and Brava was financed under Financial Cooperation, as was the development of the ports there (completed in early 2000). Other projects included the reorganization of power and water supply on Fogo and Brava, as well as afforestation measures.
During a stopover on the island of Sal in November 2007, Federal Economics Minister Glos met to exchange views with the then Minister of the Economy and current Foreign Minister of Cape Verde, José Brito.
In May 2008, Federal Chancellor Merkel met with Cape Verde’s National Assembly President Lima and Finance Minister Duarte on the island of Sal.
Also in May 2008, the then Cape Verdean Foreign Minister Borges met with Minister of State Erler at the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin.
In October 2009, Cape Verde’s President Pires paid an official visit to Germany accompanied by his wife and a high-ranking delegation.
