Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi delivered a speech at the opening session of the 8th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting for the African Union and Regional Economic Communities in New El Alamein City. He emphasized that the city serves as a prime example of development triumphing over the remnants of conflict. Once a battleground for a fierce World War II battle, the area suffered from war effects, mines, and conflicts that weren't part of the continent's issues. Today, it stands as a testament to what determination can achieve.
The meeting, hosted by Egypt, gathered African leaders and heads of regional economic communities. They discussed progress on the African Union's 2026 main theme: ensuring sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems to achieve Agenda 2063 goals. El-Sisi participated alongside African leaders who are members of the African Union's bureau for the current year and heads of regional economic mechanisms.
The discussions also covered recent efforts to enhance coordination and integration among African regional economic communities. Participants aimed to push forward the institutional development paths of the African Union and activate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. This agreement seeks to boost intra-African trade and economic integration.
New El Alamein City, where the meeting took place, has transformed significantly. From being a site of intense conflict, it now serves as a platform for investment, work, and construction. The city's transformation is seen as a symbol of Egypt's and Africa's potential for growth and development.
The African Union's focus on water and sanitation reflects a broader strategy to address critical challenges facing the continent. By 2063, Africa aims to have made significant strides in sustainable development, including access to clean water and sanitation for all its citizens.
Egypt, as the host country, underscored its commitment to African unity and development. By choosing New El Alamein City as the venue, Egypt highlighted its own progress from conflict to development. The meeting served as a platform for African leaders to reaffirm their commitment to these goals.
The gathering concluded with a renewed emphasis on cooperation and development. African leaders acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed optimism about the continent's future. They pledged to continue working towards a more integrated, developed, and prosperous Africa.
Key points
- New El Alamein City stands as a model for development overcoming the remnants of conflict.
- The African Union's 2026 theme focuses on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
- The meeting aimed to enhance coordination among regional economic communities and activate the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
