Statement by Mr. Carlos Lopes at the 22nd ordinary session of the African Union executive council

Statement by Mr. Carlos Lopes at the 22nd Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council. Mr. Lopes, on his remarks highlighted that, This Council just like the Summit which it advises and supports, symbolises the very essence of the pan-Africanism which we are celebrating this year of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity. a reconfiguration of economic power is taking place with countries such as Brazil, China, India emerging as key global players. This trend is being accompanied by an amazing shift in demographic profiles, rapid urbanization, the strong voice of a global civil society movement and broad acceptance of the urgent need to protect the environment. Africa must use current growth trends as a platform for broad structural transformation. The world may have its own particular interest in a rising Africa, but the growth that must matter for Africans is one that is primarily anchored on their interest and concerns. The world is changing; Africa is changing, so ECA must change. To be relevant to the transformative development agenda of its member states, ECA must retool itself and recalibrate its programme. Indeed, at ECA we are committed to putting “Africa First” in all that we do. That is why we have developed a new strategic vision for our institution, aimed at ensuring that the Commission significantly contributes to the transformative agenda of Africa, and enhances its support to member States by improving its focus and specialization.