The 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) concluded on Sunday after leaders from the United States and Europe clashed for days over the future of the transatlantic partnership and the global order, laying bare their rifts.
In his closing remarks, MSC Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger said this year's Munich Security Report, titled "Under Destruction," had sparked diverse views. While German Chancellor Friedrich Merz argued that the international system is not only under attack but "already gone," U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for its "renewal and restoration."
Ischinger pointed to mounting questions over whether "what we used to call the West" still shares common values, adheres to the same rules, and truly remains on the same team.
He also referred to warnings voiced by participants from Denmark and Greenland, noting that if certain lines are crossed, they must be taken seriously.
Addressing the Ukraine crisis, Ischinger described its outcome as an "existential question for Europe" that will shape the continent's future in multiple ways. He stressed that this reality should be recognized not only across Europe but also in the United States.
The 62nd MSC, held from Friday to Sunday, focused on issues including European security and defense, the future of transatlantic relations, and competing visions for the global order.
62nd Munich Security Conference ends amid doubts over transatlantic ties
62nd Munich Security Conference ends amid doubts over transatlantic ties
African officials on Wednesday pledged to scale up investment to accelerate development across the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at a meeting in Accra, Ghana's capital.
They made the commitment during the 24th Annual General Meeting of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), where leaders highlighted the need to expand the bank's capital base to finance transformative projects.
Ghanaian Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson stressed that timely capital payments would strengthen EBID's leverage and sustain its growth, enabling the institution to stimulate inclusive economic expansion across the region.
"Timely capital payments are critical. It strengthens EBID leverage and sustains its growth and impact across our region. Expanding our capital base is essential to strengthen our ability to finance transformative development projects and stimulate inclusive economic growth among our member states," said Forson.
EBID recorded strong achievements in 2025, with total disbursements of about 722 million U.S. dollars, up 47.7 percent from 2024. Building on that momentum, President George Agyekum Donkor said the bank remains committed to helping member states tackle poverty and close infrastructure gaps across the region.
"We aim to direct at least 63 percent of new commitments towards the private enterprises to catalyze job creation and innovation. Simultaneously, the bank would embed environmental, social and governance principles across its operations, dedicating over 41 percent of resources to climate mitigation and social inclusion projects," said Donkor.
With disbursements surging nearly 48 percent last year, EBID officials said the bank is positioned to channel more resources into private-sector growth and climate-focused projects, reinforcing its role as a driver of inclusive development across West Africa.
African officials vow stronger investment push at ECOWAS bank meeting in Accra
