Egypt will assume the presidency of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council on Feb. 1, with a primary focus on addressing the ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Somalia.
The one-month presidency comes at a time of increasing security, political, and developmental challenges across the continent, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs said in a statement.
Cairo plans to host informal ministerial-level consultations with the Sudanese foreign minister, followed by two separate ministerial sessions to discuss developments in Sudan and Somalia, the ministry said.
The Egyptian presidency aims to enhance the effectiveness of the council through a comprehensive approach to peace, security, and governance. This strategy is intended to resolve conflicts, support stability, and achieve the goals of the AU Agenda 2063, according to the statement.
Egypt said its leadership of the council would be guided by the AU Constitutive Act, emphasising respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, the protection of national institutions, and non-interference in internal affairs.
The scheduled programme includes sessions on the link between climate change and security, artificial intelligence, and the challenges of political transitions in Africa. It will also address post-conflict reconstruction and development, a portfolio currently led by Egypt within the union.
Consultations are also planned with specialised agencies to examine the connection between food security and regional stability.
During its term, the Egyptian delegation will present the annual report on the activities of the Peace and Security Council to the AU Summit of heads of state and government. The presidency will also include various field visits and consultations with relevant parties to coordinate regional security efforts, the ministry added.
