Visiting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Franco Frattini and Deputy Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Erastus J.O. Mwencha, met and discussed cooperation issues between the two sides.

“The meeting provided an opportunity to review a number of issues of common concern, particularly in the area of peace and security, including the efforts to sustain peace and reconciliation in Somalia and in other crisis areas,” said AU.

The two sides also discussed the implementation of the Italian – African Peace Facility (IAPF) established in December 2007, to support the AU peace and security agenda, with a total amount of 40 million Euros.

“During the meeting, the Deputy Chairperson also raised the issue of the African migrants in Italy and the recent wave of violence against them, emphasizing that the African Union was deeply concerned by the situation,” said AU.

The Italian Minister expressed the commitment of his Government to ensure the safety and security of the African migrants in Italy.

Source African Press Agency

Net News Publisher

Officials of the UN commission and the AU Peace and Security Council officials discussed peacemaking efforts in the post-conflict countries in Addis Ababa.

Chilean ambassador to the UN and head of the commission, Heraldo Munzo, told journalists that Burundi, Sierra Leone, Guinea Bissau and Central Africa Rep. are the four countries that are currently benefiting from the initiatives under its Peacebuilding Fund.

Munzo indicated that out of the $350 million fund, so far, $162 million have been granted to these countries that are undertaking various projects.

The Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) is a new intergovernmental advisory body of the United Nations that supports peace efforts in countries emerging from conflict, and is a key addition to the capacity of the International Community in the broad peace agenda.

According to ambassador Munzo, the commission established in 2005, agreed with the African Union Commission to closely work on peacemaking efforts in the continent, mainly in countries emerging from conflicts.

It is the first time that the peace building commission is holding its discussion with the AU.

“We have agreed to work together and share experience on peace making efforts. It is the first step to exchange views,” said Munzo.

Eastus Mwencha, deputy Chairperson of the AU commission, on his part said that the two sides have agreed to strengthen their collaboration on the peacemaking efforts in the continent.

The UN PBC is the arm of the United Nations that has a mandate to support post-conflict peace building efforts, including initiatives for post-conflict reconstruction.

“We intend to share our experiences, it will not be limited to the four countries, but also all countries in the continent,” said AU Peace and Security Commissioner Ambassador Ramatane Lamamra.

Source African Press Agency

Net News Publisher