And somewhat further afield, Asia developed to become the continent with the fastest growing economies. The EU is most anxious to strengthen its ties with Asia. Europe is at a disadvantage, since in the past it has been extremely slow to establish ties with this continent. For closer contacts with South America reasons of trade similarly apply. On the African continent, regionalization is already taking shape.
Apprehension is the motive for increased attention to be paid to North Africa.
Security considerations play a major role for the EU where the Maghreb is concerned, the issues at stake being the pressure of migration and the advance of fundamentalism. Thousands of kilometres further south, the EU has its eye on South Africa. The ACP countries were in favour, since this elder brother would considerably strengthen the position of the rank and file. But the EU was opposed to South Africa becoming a member. It is feared that in this game of chess the great loser will be Africa.