African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has held talks with United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia on strengthening cooperation between Africa and the US.
The meeting took place at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa and focused on trade, investment, infrastructure, diplomacy, peace and security.
Youssouf welcomed Garcia and highlighted the longstanding ties between Africa and the United States. He stressed the need to build on the historic relationship through a stronger and mutually beneficial partnership between the African Union, its member states and Washington.
The AU Commission chairperson said the relationship should deliver tangible benefits for both sides.The US official reaffirmed Washington's commitment to Africa, saying the continent remains a priority for the United States.
Garcia pledged that his administration would work closely with the AU Commission and member states to advance shared interests and common objectives.
The two sides reviewed areas of cooperation under the AU Commission-US Strategic Investment Working Group. Particular attention was given to trade, infrastructure and investment.
They agreed on the importance of turning existing commitments into concrete outcomes while deepening the strategic partnership between the two sides.
The talks also focused heavily on Africa's peace and security challenges, including the conflicts in Sudan and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Youssouf welcomed US cooperation in supporting African-led efforts to promote peace and stability. He specifically pointed to ongoing initiatives addressing the crises in eastern DRC and Sudan.
Garcia commended Youssouf for what he described as his constructive engagement and leadership in efforts to resolve the conflicts.
On Sudan, the two officials called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities.They also stressed the need for unhindered humanitarian access and an inclusive, civilian-led political process.
The two sides said such a process should put Sudan on a credible path towards peace and the restoration of constitutional order.
The AU Commission chairperson also welcomed the US role in facilitating peace efforts in eastern DRC through the Washington and Doha processes.
Both sides emphasised the need for greater coordination among the different initiatives seeking to resolve the conflict. They agreed that the various efforts should complement each other and remain coherent.
Garcia also expressed appreciation for the role played by African leaders and facilitators in supporting the peace efforts. Beyond the two conflicts, the discussions covered wider security concerns facing the continent.
These included terrorism and violent extremism, maritime insecurity and piracy.Youssouf underscored the importance of continued American support for African-led peace and security initiatives.
The two officials also discussed the situation in Libya, reaffirming the need for a comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable political solution.
The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding and deepening cooperation.
The discussions underline efforts by the AU and US to strengthen their strategic relationship while addressing Africa's economic, infrastructure and security priorities. Both sides agreed that closer cooperation would be critical in translating shared commitments into practical and mutually beneficial outcomes.