Addis Abeba, 31 August 2018 – The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mr Moussa Faki Mahamat received the letters of credence of H.E. Mr. Giuseppe Berlendi, the new Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the African Union, on 31 August 2018 at the AU Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Amb Giuseppe Berlendi expressed the commitment of his country to the AU by his appointment exclusively to the AU. Like the EU, US, China and France, Italy becomes one of the Partners to have a dedicated representative to the AU. He further informed the Chairperson of the various opening of new Embassies of Italy in Africa including in Niger, Guinea and Burkina Faso. Amb Berlendi also conveyed, on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Italy, an invitation to the Chairperson to attend the upcoming 2nd Edition of the Africa-Italy Conference, which is scheduled for 25th October 2018 in Roma, Italy.

H.E Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat welcomed the invitation to attend the 2nd Africa-Italy Conference and indicated that it demonstrates Italy’s committed interest to strengthening its partnership with the African Union. The Chairperson also recalled his participation in previous meetings organised in Italy including the G7 Summit, which was held in 2017.

Both interlocutors acknowledged the appointment of Amb Berlendi as an opportunity to deepen the cooperation on issues of common interest such as the Post-Cotonou Agreement, peace and security, migration, human trafficking and renewable energy.

Finally, the Chairperson of the AU Commission assured the newly appointment ambassador that the Commission will continue to collaborate for a successful partnership between the AU and Italy.

For further information, please contact:
Mrs Christiane Yanrou-Matondo, Principal Communication Officer, Bureau of the Chairperson; E-mail: Yanrouc@africa-union.org;