The meeting provided an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding partnership between Africa & the US & to exchange views on key continental developments. Welcoming Assistant Secretary Garcia, the Chairperson underscored the historic foundations of the U.S.–Africa relationship & emphasised the importance of building on this legacy through a strengthened & mutually beneficial partnership between the AU, Member States & the US.
Assistant Secretary Garcia reaffirmed that Africa remains a priority for the US& conveyed his Administration's commitment to working closely with the AU Commission & AU Member States in advancing shared interests & common objectives. He highlighted opportunities for enhanced cooperation in areas including trade & investment, infrastructure development, diplomacy, peace & security.
The two sides reviewed priority areas of cooperation within the framework of the AU Commission–US Strategic Investment Working Group, with particular emphasis on advancing trade, infrastructure & investment. They agreed on the importance of translating commitments into concrete & mutually beneficial outcomes, while further strengthening the strategic partnership between the AU & the US.
The Chairperson & Assistant Secretary Garcia also exchanged views on peace & security challenges across the continent.
The Chairperson welcomed the US' cooperation & support for African-led efforts to advance peace & stability, including ongoing initiatives in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo & Sudan. Assistant Secretary Garcia, in turn, commended the Chairperson for his constructive engagement & leadership in support of efforts to address these crises.
On Sudan, they underscored the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire & cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, & an inclusive, civilian-led political process that would place the country on a credible path towards peace & the restoration of constitutional order.
The Chairperson also welcomed the US' role in facilitating peace efforts in the eastern DRC, including the Washington & Doha processes. They agreed on the importance of ensuring complementarity & coherence among ongoing initiatives. Assistant Secretary Garcia expressed appreciation for the engagement of African leaders & facilitators in support of these efforts.
The discussions further highlighted the importance of sustained cooperation in addressing broader peace & security challenges, including the fight against terrorism & violent extremism, maritime insecurity & piracy. The Chairperson emphasised the value of continued U.S. support for African-led peace & security initiatives.
On the situation in Libya, they reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive, inclusive & sustainable political solution.
The Chairperson & Assistant Secretary Garcia concluded by reaffirming their shared commitment to further deepen & broaden cooperation between the AU & the US, building on the longstanding U.S.–Africa relationship.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).
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