jasdooit

For two days, the summit will focus on internal disputes in Sudan and the Sahel region, along with initiatives to fight transnational terrorism. Sudan did not attend the summit for the fifth year in a row because it was suspended after the army chief’s coup in October 2021.

Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye took over the AU leadership for the upcoming term, guiding the continent during a period marked by intricate developments, including security issues and ongoing conflicts. Most African presidents and government leaders emphasized the severity of the Sudanese situation, urging an immediate halt to hostilities between the conflicting sides.

The departing AU Chairman, Angolan President Joao Lourenco, highlighted a “zero tolerance” approach to coups during the transition ceremony. He called for unified efforts to resolve the Sudanese conflict, asserting that weapons across Africa should be put down and practical solutions identified for the continent’s long-standing conflicts.

Lourenco mentioned that the conflict in Sudan has resulted in an extraordinary humanitarian crisis and widespread displacement. He emphasized that the global community needs to carry out its responsibility towards Sudan, urging world leaders to support the Sudanese population in attaining peace and safety.

He also criticized the practice of coup leaders holding and winning their own elections, labeling it as intolerable and an action that promotes additional coups.

Guterres mentioned that Africa needs justice, the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals, and reforms in the financial system. He called the refusal to grant Africa a permanent position on the U.N. Security Council “unacceptable.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni spoke as a guest of honor, mentioning that Rome aims to create a balanced strategic relationship with African countries rooted in mutual benefit instead of conventional aid approaches. She highlighted that an Italian conference held on Friday in Addis Ababa centered on economic collaboration and investment.

Meloni stated that Italy is developing a broad investment transformation initiative in Africa, with an emphasis on unstable nations and debt sustainability mechanisms to guarantee lasting stability.

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa stated that the Palestinian population continues to need strong global assistance to attain their rightful claims. He highlighted that Israeli actions have damaged roughly 85% of the facilities in the Palestinian areas.

After the initial statements, the Kenyan President delivered a report regarding the restructuring of AU institutions. The Comoros Ambassador to the AU revealed the composition of the 2026 Bureau, with Burundi serving as Chair, Ghana as First Vice-Chair, and Angola as Rapporteur.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).