Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi participated in the 8th Coordination Meeting of the African Union in the New Administrative Capital. He reiterated Egypt's stance against foreign interference in African countries' internal affairs, emphasizing the importance of respecting nations' sovereignty and territorial integrity. This stance is fundamental to achieving stability on the continent, according to President el-Sisi.
During his address at the meeting, President el-Sisi highlighted the need for African countries to foster relationships based on mutual respect, good neighborliness, and dialogue. He stressed that cooperation, rather than competition, should guide the management of transboundary resources, including international rivers and natural resources. This approach is crucial for promoting peace and stability in the region.
On the sidelines of the meeting, President el-Sisi met with Sudanese leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Their discussion focused on developments in Sudan, with President el-Sisi reaffirming Egypt's unwavering support for the Sudanese people. He emphasized Egypt's commitment to preserving Sudan's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as the unity of its national institutions.
President el-Sisi also expressed Egypt's continued efforts to contribute to a peaceful resolution to the Sudanese crisis, both regionally and internationally. He underscored the importance of finding a political solution to end the conflict and alleviate humanitarian suffering. This, he believes, will enable Sudan to regain its stability and embark on rebuilding and development.
The final communique of the 8th Coordination Meeting of the African Union outlined a clear roadmap for advancing regional and continental integration. President el-Sisi emphasized the need to accelerate economic and trade integration by fully activating the African Continental Free Trade Area. He also stressed the importance of developing and linking transportation and energy networks to facilitate trade and economic growth.
In his closing remarks, President el-Sisi highlighted the urgent need for sustainable and innovative financing for development projects and programs. He called for collaboration with continental financial institutions to address this challenge. The President expressed his gratitude to participants for their valuable insights, which contributed to the meeting's outcomes.
Key points
- Egypt reaffirms its support for Sudan's unity and sovereignty.
- President el-Sisi emphasizes the importance of cooperation in managing transboundary resources.
- The African Union's roadmap aims to accelerate economic and trade integration across the continent.