22nd January 2019, African Union Headquarters: The Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Amb. Kwesi Quartey, received Princess Mariam Sena Asfaw Wossen, granddaughter of Emperor Haile Selassie I. The discussions centred on Ethiopia-African Union relations, in particular, the upcoming installation of Emperor Haile Selassie’s statue at the African Union Headquarters. The statue will be unveiled during the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government on the 10th February 2019.

Reflecting on the history of African liberation, integration, and Emperor Haile Selassie’s role in the evolution of Africa’s development agenda, the Deputy Chairperson noted that the commemorative statue of Emperor Haile Selassie is an important recognition of the Emperor’s contribution to Africa’s liberation and unity leading up to the founding of the Organization of African Unity in 1963.

Princess Mariam Sena conveyed the Royal Family’s gratitude to the African Union for this decision to erect the statue at the African Union Headquarters. She recalled the Emperor’s commitment towards African unity, stating, “this historic decision is an illustration of the unity of purpose by African leaders”.
The Deputy Chairperson stated that Ethiopia has been a host and seat for the Organization of the African Unity, now the African Union, for over 50 years. “This is Africa’s diplomatic capital and symbol of Pan-Africanism. We extend our appreciation to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia as well as the good people of Ethiopia, for their commitment to the AU”.

The Deputy Chairperson also met with executives of the Emperor Haile Selassie I Memorial Association. The Association’s Board Chairman, Mr. Abayneh Abebe, apprised the Deputy Chairperson of the Association’s work in honor of the Emperor’s legacy. The Deputy Chairperson applauded the Association’s commitment to education as the way to advance the socio-economic development of the people of Ethiopia.

For more information, contact:
Ms. Doreen Apollos | Communication Advisor | Bureau of the Deputy Chairperson.
E-mail: ApollosD@africa-union.org | Tel: +251 115182737
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