ABOUT US
About the Ambassador
Prior to that, he was “EU Ambassador to Ethiopia” (2021-2024), “EU Special Envoy for Afghanistan” (2017-2021), “EU Ambassador to Myanmar/Burma” (2013-2017), “EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan” (2009-2013). He was a Diplomatic Adviser in the Cabinet of the European Commissioner for Energy (2006-2009). He is a member of the Mediation Team of the European External Action Service (EEAS). He was short-listed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to be "United Nations Special Envoy for Myanmar".
Roland Kobia previously served as Deputy Head of Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (2000-2003) and Head of Regional Political Affairs in Kenya (2003-2006), covering political processes in 12 countries in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes. He was the EU Negotiator for the accession of seven countries to the European Union (1991-2000), as well as the EU Negotiator at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva (1996-1998). He spent 10 years at EU headquarters in the Directorates-General for Competition (COMP) and the Internal Market (MARKT).
In parallel to his work, Roland Kobia has pursued an academic career over the past 35 years. He is currently Professor at the College of Europe in Bruges and teaches at the European Diplomatic Academy. He was also Professor at the University of Montpellier 1 and Senior Lecturer at various universities and institutes. He regularly publishes academic articles in various international journals. He was awarded a Fellowship by Harvard University, Boston USA.
Roland Kobia holds a Master’s degree in European Policy (Collège d’Europe à Bruges, Vice-Major de promotion), a Master’s degree in International Nuclear Law (University of Montpellier 1, Major de promotion), and a Bachelor’s degree in Law (Catholic University of Louvain, with distinction). He wrote a PhD thesis on State aid (UNISA University, with Mention).
He speaks French, English and Italian, as well as some Dutch and Spanish. He is married and has two adult daughters. He enjoys music, reading, the arts in general, discoveries and sports.
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CopyrightDUE Madagascar
Copyright: EU delegation to Madagascar
Message from the Ambassador
Welcome to the official webpage of the Delegation of the European Union to Madagascar and the Comoros!
Dear friends and partners,
The deep and historic link between Madagascar, the Comoros and the European Union dates back to 1958. This multi-sectoral relationship is marked by trust, and makes the European Union a leading international partner to both countries. In addition to the strategic political relationship, the EU remains the largest donor for development, the largest trading partner and the largest customer, generating jobs and growth.
Since the early days more than 65 years ago, our relations have moved from traditional development assistance to a genuine and mutually beneficial political and economic partnership, characterized by mutual respect and adherence to the common values of peace, dialogue and cooperation. Based on an open, innovative and inclusive relationship, this collaboration encompasses several dimensions: political, economic, trade and cultural relations, regional integration, humanitarian aid and development cooperation. This partnership has led to important achievements and has made us aware of the strength of the bond that unites us.
The European Union will therefore continue to support initiatives aimed at creating essential conditions for the development and growth of the Malagasy and Comorian populations, in particular by working on public-private partnerships. This web portal is at your service and provides information that helps deepen mutual understanding, exchanges and cooperation between the two countries and the European Union.
Thank you for your interest in our website. I wish you a pleasant browsing experience!