Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi delivered a closing speech at the 8th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union in the New El Alamein City, stressing the importance of bolstering conflict prevention efforts in Africa. He emphasized the need for early warning systems, post-conflict reconstruction, and development. El-Sisi also highlighted the crucial link between sustainable development, peace, and security in the continent.
The Egyptian President pointed to the significance of providing sustainable financing for African countries in collaboration with development institutions. He advocated for supporting supply chains, connecting transportation networks, and enhancing energy systems. El-Sisi described continental integration as a strategic choice and an urgent necessity to overcome the challenges facing Africa.
El-Sisi commended the participants for their distinguished visions, which reflect the outcomes of intensive efforts toward promoting African cooperation, integration, and unity. He expressed gratitude to his Burundian counterpart, Evariste Ndayishimiye, for his wise leadership of the African Union during the current year.
The President highlighted the progress made in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and encouraged the acceleration of economic and trade integration. He emphasized the importance of developing logistical corridors, transportation networks, and energy systems. El-Sisi also called for innovative and sustainable financing for development projects.
El-Sisi underlined the need to strengthen conflict prevention efforts, develop early warning mechanisms, and enhance post-conflict reconstruction and development. He praised the role of the African Union's Center for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development in Cairo and suggested increasing its budget to boost its effectiveness.
The Egyptian President welcomed the participation of African leaders and investors in the Africa El Alamein Business Forum, which aims to promote economic integration and stimulate investment in the continent. He expressed his hope for constructive discussions on legislative and executive frameworks that would attract and encourage investment.
In conclusion, President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt's commitment to collaborating with African nations to achieve a secure, stable, and prosperous Africa. He thanked the participants, including heads of regional economic communities and the African Union Commission, for their efforts in promoting regional integration.
Key points
- The Egyptian President calls for enhanced conflict prevention efforts and sustainable financing for African countries.
- El-Sisi emphasizes the importance of continental integration as a strategic choice to overcome challenges facing Africa.
- The President advocates for accelerating economic and trade integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
