Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 24 August 2018- H.E Amira Elfadil, Commissioner for Social Affairs of the African Union (AU), in her capacity as the acting Chairperson of the AU Commission welcomed H.E Tran Dai Quang, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the African Union on Friday 24 August 2018. The Vietnam President was heading a powerful delegation to discuss possible cooperation ties between Vietnam and the African Union Commission (AUC).

In her welcome remarks, Commissiner Amira expressed gratitude for the visit of this high level delegation from Vietnam to the African Union headquarters, led by President Quang, and commended him for the work his government is doing for its citizens. “The African Union welcomes partnership from the government of Vietnam in areas such as manufacturing and industrialization, mining, agriculture and tourism.These are the priority areas that will enhance Africa’s development in its efforts towards achieving Agenda 2063-The Africa We Want”, said H.E Amira Elfadil.

H.E Amira Elfadil, also pointed out that during the 2018 African Union summit the Heads of State adopted the African Continental FreeTrade Area (AfCFTA) which aims to boost intra-African trade. Consequently, several member states have signed the free movement protocol which aims to break barriers and enhance integration in Africa. “It is through such initiatives that Africa will be better placed to have a voice in multi-lateral fora and also establish better partnerships, with governments such as yours for mutual benefit”, underlined the Commissioner.

H.E Tran Quang was grateful for the warm welcome he has been accorded at the African Union and noted that he is looking forward towards establishing a strong partnership between his government and the African Union. “I congratulate the African Union on the achievements made in promoting socio-economic development and the efforts towards enhancing peace and security in the region”, said the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

“The government of Vietnam has established several partneships with different African States and looks forward to having multi-faceted cooperation with the African Union in order to enhance development and demonstrate unity and solidarity towards regional and global issues”, said President Quang in his concluding remarks.

For further information contact: Mrs Esther Azaa Tankou | Head of Information, African Union Commission | Tel: +251(0) 911361185 | E-mail: yamboue@africa-union.org