Egypt's External Ministry: Political Will Key to Effectiveness of Sahel-Saharan Group

Egyptian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nader Zaki has underscored the significant role the Sahel-Saharan group plays in the African continent, given the nature of its files and areas of cooperation. These areas of cooperation are increasingly needed in light of rising security and regional challenges. Zaki emphasized the need to develop the performance of regional and international organizations and enhance their ability to play more effective roles.

Zaki highlighted that the Sahel-Saharan group requires more regular summits and meetings, prioritizing key areas of cooperation, particularly combating terrorism and organized crime. These are among the most pressing challenges that require greater coordination and joint action at the African level. He also pointed out that the regular payment of financial contributions by member states would improve the group's performance and provide the necessary resources to implement its programs and cooperation projects.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stressed that regional and international organizations have the potential to contribute more significantly to enhancing security and stability, combating terrorism, and organized crime. However, their success depends primarily on the existence of political will among member states and a genuine desire to unify efforts and collectively address common challenges.

Zaki noted that the effectiveness of any regional group does not solely depend on the performance of its secretariat or executive bodies. Instead, it relies on member states having a shared vision and a unified understanding of the challenges they face, along with a collective conviction about the importance of coordination and cooperation in dealing with common issues.

He emphasized that issues of security, combating terrorism and organized crime, and drying up their financing sources require real cooperation and continuous coordination among member states. Achieving tangible results in these areas remains dependent on the availability of political will and a shared vision. This ensures a transition from theoretical frameworks to practical steps on the ground.

Zaki mentioned that the Cairo Center is one aspect of cooperation among Sahel-Saharan group member states. He noted that efforts are underway to reactivate and enhance its role as a driving force for joint cooperation efforts. This aims to contribute to strengthening coordination among group member states to face security and regional challenges.

Regarding the meeting in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, Zaki considered that hosting this meeting sends a message of solidarity from participating countries. It reflects the possibility of returning to normal life in Tripoli, praising the success of organizing the meeting and expressing his wishes for Tripoli to remain in the best conditions.

Key points

• The political will of member states is crucial for the effectiveness of the Sahel-Saharan group.
• Regular payment of financial contributions by member states can improve the group's performance.
• Cooperation and coordination among member states are essential in addressing common security challenges.