Addis ababa: The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AU), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, praised the Angolan presidency for its exemplary role at the helm of the continental organization.
According to Angola Press News Agency, during the opening of the 48th ordinary session of the Executive Council, Mahmoud Youssouf highlighted Angola's significant contributions in steering the activities of the AU. He underscored the importance of this year's Summit theme, which focuses on water and sanitation, emphasizing the necessity of preserving water as a collective good to promote peace and reconciliation among states.
Youssouf also addressed the AU's reform efforts, referencing the 2024-28 Five-Year Plan and the ongoing implementation of the Competency Audit and Skills Assessment (SACA) process reform. He welcomed the return to constitutional order in Gabon and Guinea, following successful transition processes overseen by the Commission.
He expressed ongoing concerns about political stability in Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, which have faced unconstitutional changes of government, and noted that terrorism remains a threat in the Sahel and East Africa.
In terms of development and integration, Youssouf highlighted the advancements of the African Continental Free Trade Area and the contributions of specialized agencies like AUDA-NEPAD and the Centre for Disease Control. He stressed the importance of leveraging these instruments to accelerate growth by engaging the private sector, civil society, and philanthropic foundations.
He urged the Executive Council to prioritize strategic issues to ensure the success of the upcoming 39th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union. During the 48th Ordinary Session, which continues until Thursday, the Executive Council will review reports from the Committee of Permanent Representatives, consider African Union's participation in the G20, and discuss the continent's positioning in global governance forums. Additionally, it will oversee elections and appointments to the Union's bodies, review legal instruments, monitor Agenda 2063, and address financial contributions from Member States.
