Cairo: Africa is experiencing significant transformations that necessitate accelerated coordination and integration efforts among its countries, Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs Karim Sherif stated. He emphasized that African unity is no longer merely a political slogan but a strategic necessity to ensure stability and sustainable development amid rapidly accelerating global challenges.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Sherif made these remarks during a conference held under the patronage of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Abdel-Sadek el-Shorbagy, Chairman of the National Press Authority. Organized by Al-Ahram Hebdo newspaper at the Al-Ahram Foundation, the event was themed "The Africa We Want: Integration and Partnership for the Future," coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the founding of Al-Ahram Foundation.
Sherif highlighted Africa's vast potential, noting the continent's large youth population, abundant natural resources, and significant markets. He stated that these attributes position Africa as a key center of gravity in the new international order and that an economic renaissance is achievable if resources are well-managed and mechanisms for joint action are activated.
He acknowledged the African Union's progress toward unity, particularly noting the Continental Free Trade Area Agreement as a pivotal step toward economic integration. Sherif stressed that the agreement's success hinges on the commitment of countries to implement it and complete cross-border infrastructure.
Sherif further emphasized Egypt's role in supporting African unity and integration within the African Union. He detailed Egypt's initiatives in security, capacity building, infrastructure development, and enhancing diplomatic and technical cooperation with neighboring African nations.
Sherif also addressed the crises facing parts of the continent, underscoring the importance of a unified African vision with African solutions to African problems. He stressed that strengthening peace and security institutions and improving coordination among African capitals are essential for progress.
He concluded by affirming that Africa's future will be determined by its people and that African unity is the shortest path to a powerful continent capable of protecting its interests and shaping its global role.
Sherif also highlighted Khaled El-Enany's election as Director-General of UNESCO as a recognition of his international experience and competence. He mentioned Egypt's efforts to garner African support for Arab issues, particularly the Palestinian cause, as part of a strategic vision that strengthens South-South solidarity.
Regarding the crisis in Somalia, Sherif reaffirmed Egypt's unwavering support for Somalia and called on the international community to bolster support for Somalia's humanitarian and security challenges, emphasizing the importance of preserving Somali unity and territorial integrity.
He urged African countries to unify their positions on common interests, assuring that Egypt will continue to support its African counterparts in international forums.