Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi delivered a speech at the 8th Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting of the African Union, which took place in the New El Alamein City. The meeting was attended by African leaders and heads of regional economic communities. The session focused on the progress made regarding the African Union's main theme for 2026, which is ensuring sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
The meeting was addressed by President Sisi, as well as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yousuf, and the President of Burundi, Évariste Ndayishimiye, who is the current chair of the African Union. The discussions centered on enhancing coordination and integration among regional economic communities in Africa and promoting institutional development within the African Union.
President Sisi emphasized the importance of coordination between African countries, the African Union Commission, and regional economic communities to achieve sustainable development. He highlighted that coordination is a means to an end, allowing for the transition from multiple efforts to integrated projects that yield tangible results.
The President also touched on the significance of the African Union's theme for 2026, which focuses on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems. He expressed Egypt's support for the African Union's efforts to address water-related challenges and promote cooperation in managing transboundary water resources.
President Sisi called for the activation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which came into effect in 2019. He emphasized that the agreement has the potential to boost intra-African trade, support industrialization, and increase economic opportunities.
The President also highlighted the importance of the private sector in driving economic growth and development in Africa. He noted that Egypt has launched the "El Alamein - Africa Business Forum" to bring together leaders, investors, and financial institutions to promote economic cooperation and investment on the continent.
President Sisi concluded his address by emphasizing the need for African countries to work together to address common challenges and promote peace and stability. He also highlighted Egypt's commitment to supporting the African Union's efforts to promote post-conflict reconstruction and development.
Key points
- President Sisi calls for enhanced coordination and integration among African countries and regional economic communities.
- The African Union's theme for 2026 focuses on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
- President Sisi emphasizes the importance of activating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and economic growth.
