Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Abdoulkader Houssein Omar, has emphasized the need for stronger coordination between the African Union (AU) and regional organizations to achieve concrete results. Speaking at the 8th Semi-Annual Coordination Meeting of the AU in El-Alamein, Egypt, Minister Omar highlighted the importance of transforming the continent's commitments into tangible outcomes. He represented President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, who is the current chairman of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
The meeting brought together representatives from the AU, regional economic communities, and member states to discuss ways to accelerate continental integration and implement the Agenda 2063 development plan. Minister Omar reaffirmed IGAD's commitment to peace, security, and regional integration, citing the prevention, mediation, and facilitation of dialogue as key priorities in addressing crises in the Horn of Africa and the continent.
On the economic front, Minister Omar advocated for faster integration through the facilitation of trade and mobility, development of regional corridors, and promotion of investments. He also stressed the need to strengthen resilience to climate and humanitarian challenges through early warning mechanisms, response systems, and increased cooperation on water, agriculture, sanitation, and sustainable natural resource management.
Minister Omar further emphasized the importance of full and effective participation of women and youth in decision-making, development, and peacebuilding processes. He requested that the responsibilities assigned to regional economic communities and mechanisms be accompanied by the necessary means to execute them, and invited the AU to build a solid foundation for future generations.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a draft declaration, which outlines the commitments and actions to be taken by the AU and regional organizations. Minister Omar was accompanied by Djibouti's ambassadors to Ethiopia and Egypt, Abdi Mahamoud Eybe and Ahmed Ali Barreh, respectively.
The African Union's Agenda 2063 aims to transform the continent into a global powerhouse by 2063. The plan focuses on promoting economic growth, social development, and peace and security. Djibouti, as a member of the IGAD, is committed to implementing the plan and achieving the desired outcomes.
The meeting in El-Alamein reflects the ongoing efforts of the African Union and regional organizations to strengthen coordination and cooperation to achieve concrete results. The outcome of the meeting is expected to contribute to the implementation of the Agenda 2063 and promote continental integration and development.
Key points
- Djibouti's Foreign Minister calls for stronger coordination between African Union and regional organizations to achieve concrete results.
- The meeting aimed to accelerate continental integration and implement the Agenda 2063 development plan.
- Djibouti emphasizes the importance of full and effective participation of women and youth in decision-making, development, and peacebuilding processes.
