The Foreign Ministers of Botswana and Nigeria called for enhanced cooperation among African nations during the African Union’s Executive Council meeting in Addis Ababa. They emphasized the need for African solutions to African problems, the importance of intra-African trade, and ongoing AU reforms to improve global representation for Africa. The ministers expressed hope for operationalizing the continent’s collective vision through effective leadership and a united approach.
In Addis Ababa, the Foreign Ministers of Botswana and Nigeria convened to advocate for deeper collaboration among African nations during the 46th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s Executive Council. They emphasized the urgent need for African countries to devise tailored solutions for continental challenges.
Botswana’s International Relations Minister, Phenyo Butale, expressed the view that strong cooperation is essential for actualizing the principles of African solutions to African problems. He outlined the necessity for intra-Africa trade, stressing, “We believe African countries should work closely together to come up with African solutions to African problems. We believe the theme is apt and accurate.”
Moreover, Butale highlighted Africa’s abundant resources and the pressing need to foster local production rather than merely exporting raw materials. He asserted, “We need to stop exporting raw materials and start producing finished goods in Africa.” His vision emphasizes operationalizing regional aspirations towards achieving “The Africa We Want.”
Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, referenced ongoing discussions regarding the African Union’s reform process, particularly focusing on the implications of the Permanent Representatives Committee’s report. He noted that addressing reparations was a significant theme for this year’s Executive Council meeting, stating, “We aim to approach systematically for the benefit of our people.”
Tuggar further underscored the necessity for changes in the global financial system and called for reform in international organizations such as the United Nations. He remarked, “If we at the African Union move forward with one voice, we will be able to push for reforms in the global financial and political structures for Africa’s benefit.”
Lastly, Tuggar advocated for new leadership within the African Union, emphasizing that the Union must appoint effective commissioners who are committed to reforms. He stated, “The African Union needs commissioners and leaders who will adhere to the provisions and recommendations for reform, ensuring that the African Union becomes more efficient in utilizing resources and time.”
The meeting of Botswana and Nigeria’s Foreign Ministers underscores a collective commitment towards collaborative approaches for addressing Africa’s challenges. They articulated a vision of improved intra-African trade, resource value addition, and a united front for necessary reforms within global systems. As preparations for the upcoming Heads of State meeting continue, the call for operationalizing frameworks for regional aspirations remains vital in realizing the continent’s goals.
Original Source: www.ena.et
