AFRICA - African Union opens diplomatic mission in Washington: “I wish to represent the new Africa with a vibrant economy” says Madame Ambassador Amina Salum Ali

Washington (Agenzia Fides) - Bonds between Africa and the United States have been tightened with a new African Union Permanent Mission opened in Washington. Called to head the delegation which represents 53 countries, Madame Ambassador Amina Salum Ali from Tanzania. “This is a unique opportunity to work together" said the new Ambassador underlining her intention to work to involve in her diplomatic activity the African Diaspora living in the United States.
Another of the diplomatic Mission's tasks will be to facilitate investments and business opportunities in Africa through channels made available by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a law approved by the Congress US in 2000 to promote growth of the free market in African countries. Ms Ali said she intends to support “a new Africa, an economically vibrant Africa, full of opportunities for investments and with good prospects for economic renewal”.
US adjunct secretary of state Ms Jendayi Frazer said the inauguration of the African Union diplomatic see was “an historical moment for both the United States and Africa, the culmination of years of USA and AU collaboration”.
“The United States and the African Union share a common aim and vision for Africa, including the resolution of conflicts, democratic progress, growth economy and trade, investment in the African people, tackle challenges to public health ” Ms Frazer added.
America's interest in Africa has grown in recent years for economic reasons (oil and other prime materials, but also investments in the stronger African economies with high growth rates), for national politics (influence of Afro-American pressure groups and religious group with regard to questions like Darfur), and also for the war on terrorism. Only days ago General William Ward, until now deputy commander of U.S. European Command, was appointed Commander of the US African Command, to oversee military operations on the continent of Africa. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 13/7/2007 righe 35 parole 372)