Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said that the call discussed ways to strengthen the distinguished relations between Egypt and Greece, particularly in light of the May 2025 announcement to elevate them to strategic partnership.
The call emphasized the importance of continuing to develop joint cooperation in various fields, with a focus on increasing trade and mutual investments, based on the significant potential both countries have.

The call also touched on the latest regional and international developments of mutual interest. The President reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian and relief aid, and secure the release of hostages and captives. The Greek prime minister praised and supported these efforts.

President El-Sisi and the Greek prime minister underscored the necessity to immediately begin the reconstruction of the Strip once a ceasefire is reached. They stressed their absolute rejection of the displacement of the Palestinian people from their land.
The two sides affirmed that the only path to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region is to grant the Palestinian people their legitimate right to establish an independent state along the June 4, 1967, borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the two-state solution and relevant international legitimacy resolutions.

The call also addressed a number of priority issues, including cooperation in the fields of energy, electricity interconnection, maritime border demarcation, and combating illegal immigration.
President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s firm commitment to protecting religious sanctities on its territory, including St. Catherine’s Monastery, due to its historical and spiritual value. This was appreciated by the Greek prime minister.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Source: APO – Report:

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Coordinators of the students’ summer work program in Dekemhare sub-zone reported that over 115,000 tree seedlings have been planted through the initiative.

According to information from the education branch in the sub-zone, the program was carried out by 945 students, coordinated by teachers and agricultural experts from seven centers, in collaboration with local residents.

Ms. Rigbe Kifle, head of the education office in the sub-zone, attributed the success of the program to the guidance of agricultural experts and the strong participation of students and the public. She also called for sustained follow-up to ensure the survival and continuity of the trees planted.

Mr. Yemane Abera, administrator of the sub-zone, commended the Forestry and Wildlife Corporation for supplying seedlings on time and praised the participants for their strong involvement.

Similarly, members of the National Union of Eritrean Women branch in the Central Region, together with members of the union in Serejeka sub-zone, conducted a tree-planting campaign from 6 to 20 August in the Embaderho area.

Ms. Alem Belai, head of the union branch in the Central Region, said that the branch has been conducting popular campaigns in the area since 2010.

Ms. Tekea Goitom, head of the union branch in Serejeka sub-zone, added that the various types of trees previously planted are in good condition.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Source: APO – Report:

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Members of the PFDJ from various sub-zones of Asmara voluntarily donated blood on 19 and 20 August to enrich the blood supply of the National Blood Transfusion Service.

Participants were from the sub-zones of Sembel, Godaif, Gejeret, Tsetserat, and Arbaete Asmara.

Mr. Tekle Habte, coordinator of organization and promotion at the National Voluntary Blood Donors Association, commended the voluntary blood donors in the Central Region for their regular contributions and called on others to follow their noble example.

Noting that PFDJ organizations in the Central Region have made voluntary blood donation a regular yearly activity, Mr. Shumendi Andemariam, head of administrative affairs at the PFDJ office in the Central Region, expressed readiness to continue the program sustainably.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the British Embassy near Monrovia, successfully conducted a one-day capacity-building training for Ministry staff on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in preparation for Liberia’s upcoming membership on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Non- Permanent in 2026. This strategic initiative underscores Liberia’s commitment to enhancing its diplomatic capabilities and contributing effectively to global peace and security discussions.

The training, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia, focused on equipping participants with the skills needed for effective communication within the complex UNSC policy environment. Facilitated by Mme. Joanna Mark Reiter, Deputy Chief of Mission at the British Embassy, the session provided practical insights into navigating multilateral diplomacy, drafting impactful statements, and fostering collaboration among UNSC member states. Participants included assistant ministers, senior diplomats, senior desk officers, and administrative staff, all of whom play critical roles in shaping Liberia’s engagement on the global stage.

The program covered key topics such as Using language and Information effectively during the UNSC, Brilliant Briefing for the UNSC, and Super Speeches at the UNSC. Interactive workshops allowed participants to simulate real-world UNSC scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of the Council’s operational dynamics. Mme. Reiter emphasized the importance of clear, concise communication to advance Liberia’s priorities, including peacebuilding, sustainable development, and human rights advocacy.

Hon. Reginald B. Goodridge, Director General, Foreign Service Institute (FSI), hailed the training as a pivotal step in preparing Liberia for its non-permanent UNSC seat. “This collaboration with the British Embassy strengthens our capacity to represent Liberia’s interests and contribute meaningfully to global peace efforts,” the Director General stated. “We are committed to ensuring our team is well-prepared to engage with confidence and clarity.”

The British Embassy reiterated its support for Liberia’s growing role in international diplomacy. Mme. Reiter noted, “Liberia’s election to the UNSC is a testament to its leadership in West Africa. We are proud to partner with the Ministry to enhance the skills needed for effective participation in this critical global forum.”

This training marks the beginning of a series of preparatory activities planned ahead of Liberia’s UNSC tenure. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed gratitude to the British Embassy for its continued partnership and expertise, which will bolster Liberia’s ability to address pressing global challenges.

As Liberia gears up for its UNSC role, this capacity-building effort reflects a shared commitment to fostering diplomatic excellence and advancing global stability. The Ministry looks forward to further collaborations to ensure Liberia’s voice resonates strongly in 2026.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

Source: APO – Report:

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On August 20, commencing at 5:58 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with Hon. Ms. Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi, who is visiting Japan to participate in the in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

1. At the outset, Minister IWAYA referred that the cumulative number of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers dispatched to Malawi has exceeded 1,800, which is the biggest number in the world, and expressed his hope that young people will continue to play an active role as a bridge between the two countries. In response, Minister Tembo expressed hir appreciation for the contribution extended by Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers as well as her intention to further develop the good bilateral relations that have been built up over many years.
2. Following that, Minister IWAYA announced the launch of a new comprehensive cooperation initiative covering the Nacala Corridor region, which connects Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the Indian Ocean, and stated that Japan will support the development of transportation infrastructure and industrial promotion in the surrounding areas. Minister IWAYA also stated that, in light of the serious food insecurity caused by recent floods and droughts, Japan has decided to provide food assistance to Malawi. In response, Minister Tembo expressed her gratitude for Japan’s support to date, while also touching on the One Village, One Product Movement. In addition, Minister Tembo expressed her desire to further strengthen bilateral relations, including strengthening economic ties through increased investment from Japan, while also expressing her hopes for cooperation in areas such as regional integration, infrastructure, minerals, and agriculture.
3. The two ministers also concurred to further strengthening cooperation in responding to various regional and international challenges, such as policies towards North Korea including the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue, and the United Nations Security Council reform.

– on behalf of Portal do Governo de Moçambique.

Source: APO – Report:

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“With the world’s youngest population, abundant natural resources, and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, Africa is poised for progress,” he told the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokohama.

He said the meeting’s theme – Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa – was a reminder that these same strengths can help shape a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world in Africa and beyond.

Progress and reform

In this regard, he emphasised the need to accelerate progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through investment, reform and partnerships.

Mr. Guterres highlighted five areas for cooperation, starting with his longstanding push to reform institutions of global governance so that they reflect today’s realities.

“Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping the decisions that affect its future,” he said.

“That includes long-overdue reform of the Security Council, where incredibly, Africa has no permanent member, and other regions remain underrepresented.”

He also called for overhauling the international financial architecture, describing the current system as “unjust and unfair”, as well as bold action on debt relief.

Value chains and renewable energy

The Secretary-General next put the spotlight on investment in sustainable global value chains and regional integration.

“Africa’s path for prosperity must focus on adding value to its raw materials, creating decent jobs, and building resilience, taking profit of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.

He also stressed the need to address “Africa’s energy paradox”, noting that although the continent has enormous potential to produce renewable energy, it receives just two per cent of global investment in the sector.  Meanwhile, some 600 million African lack access to electricity.

“Africa is also home to the critical minerals required to power renewable technologies,” he continued.  “But the countries hosting them must be the ones to benefit first and most, while adding value to local and global value chains.”

Invest in technology, youth and peace 

Turning next to technology, Mr. Guterres called for harnessing digital innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), for development.

He said Japan’s technological leadership can help close the digital divide, “and ensure that technology helps African countries catch up, with adequate digital public infrastructure, rather than being left behind.”

As “young people are the builders of Africa’s future”, the Secretary-General’s fourth point underscored the need to invest in their skills and education, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

“Let us invest in women’s full participation across economies, societies and political systems,” he added.

Mr. Guterres concluded by acknowledging the link between peace and prosperity.

“Sustainable development requires sustainable peace,” he said.

“By silencing the guns as the African Union clearly points out. And by ending violence in all its forms and strengthening the social cohesion and stability that can attract investment and business to Africa.”

– on behalf of UN News.

Source: APO

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On August 20, commencing at 4:20 p.m. for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with H.E. Ambassador Yusuf Maitama TUGGAR, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Federal Republic of Nigeria, who is visiting Japan to participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

1. At the outset, Minister IWAYA expressed his desire to deepen cooperation in the economic field and in addressing global issues, with Nigeria, a leader in Africa, which shared values and principles such as democracy and the rule of law. In response, Minister Tuggar expressed his high appreciation for Japan’s efforts in public and private sectors for TICAD to date and stated his desire to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic and climate change fields, as well as in international fora.
2. Following that, Minister IWAYA expressed his intention to strengthen cooperation with Nigeria on startups and to collaborate in the fields such as global health. In response, Minister Tuggar expressed his gratitude for Japan’s support for Nigeria and stated his desire to deepen bilateral relations, including in the areas of business or international cooperation, then added his hope to cooperate in minerals, AI capacity building and fisheries. Minister also mentioned that he would like to continue promoting startups and economic integration and thus invite investments from Japan.
3. The two ministers confirmed to work together to respond to various regional and international challenges, including their policies towards North Korea including on the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, as well as the United Nations Security Council reform.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.