Today, Egypt marks its presence at the 43rd session of the African Union Executive Council (ministerial level) in Nairobi on July 13 and 14, 2023. The Egyptian delegation, led by Ambassador Ashraf Suweilem, Assistant Foreign Minister, Director of African Organizations and Communities, and the personal representative of the President at the African Union Development Agency (NEPAD), is set to make substantial contributions. Egypt's ongoing engagement is also marked by the participation of Ambassador Dr. Mohammed Jad, Egypt's ambassador to Ethiopia and Egypt's Permanent Representative to the African Union, in preparation for the Fifth Coordinating Summit of the African Union scheduled for Sunday, July 16, 2023, in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
Ambassador Ashraf Suweilem elaborates that Egypt's participation in the Executive Council's proceedings and the forthcoming Fifth Coordinating Summit of the African Union, slated for July 16, comes as Egypt currently presides over the Steering Committee of Heads of State and Government of the African Development Agency (NEPAD) for a two-year term.
Suweilem further highlighted that Egypt, through its presidency of NEPAD, aims to propel the continent's priorities and realize Africa's Agenda 2063. This will be achieved by intensifying efforts to mobilize international financing for development projects in Africa, especially those related to infrastructure and continental connectivity. Furthermore, Egypt is dedicated to expediting the implementation of the Continental Free Trade Agreement, consistent with the African Union's theme of the year.
Suweilem also affirmed Egypt's active engagement in Africa and its instrumental role during its presidency of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) summit for two years. This leadership role is further amplified by Egypt's spearheading the post-conflict reconstruction and development portfolio at the African Union level.
The Executive Council's agenda includes reviewing reports and anticipated decisions regarding the activation of the Continental Free Trade Agreement and achieving regional integration in the continent. The Council will also discuss various financial, administrative reports and the African Union's budget for the coming year, along with the institutional reform process of the African Union. High-priority topical issues such as climate change and infrastructure projects will also be at the forefront of these deliberations.
By participating in these crucial meetings, Egypt continues to establish its commitment to fostering unity, trade, and development in Africa, reflecting its steadfast role in shaping the continent's future.
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