Category: English

Source: APO

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The State of Qatar hosted Saturday in Doha the signing ceremony of a Declaration of Principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement, in a step considered a significant development in efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability in the eastern region of Congo.

The signing of this declaration is the result of the diplomatic efforts made by the State of Qatar over the past months, during which it worked to create a favorable environment for constructive dialogue between both sides, in preparation for reaching a peaceful solution to the long-standing conflict in the region.

The signing ceremony was attended by official representatives of both parties, along with a high-level Qatari delegation.

The Declaration of Principles included mutual commitments between the two sides, in addition to a general framework paving the way for constructive negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive peace agreement.

In his speech on this occasion, HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi affirmed that this development reflects the State of Qatar’s belief in the importance of dialogue as a means for conflict resolution, and its keenness to support peaceful efforts aimed at ending the conflict in eastern Congo.

His Excellency also pointed to the State of Qatar’s commitment to supporting political solution tracks in coordination with the African Union, in complement to the progress achieved through the signing of the peace agreement between the governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda in Washington on June 27.

Negotiations are set to continue in the coming phase, with active participation from regional and international parties, in order to reach a final and comprehensive agreement that reinforces security and stability in the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

Source: APO

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State Minister of Finance, Dr. Eyob Tekalign, opened the 22nd International Conference on the Ethiopian Economy, organized by the Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA).

In his keynote address, Dr. Eyob praised the EEA for its consistent contribution to policy-relevant research over more than two decades, highlighting the Association’s role as a vital platform for evidence-based economic dialogue.

In his opening speech the state minister conveyed a strong message on the importance of professionalism, analytical rigor, and responsible communication in shaping the nation’s economic future.

The State Minister also outlined the progress Ethiopia has made under its ongoing macroeconomic reform program, noting significant gains in inflation control, export performance, debt sustainability, and tax revenue mobilization.

Beyond the macroeconomic achievements, Dr. Eyob shed light on a growing challenge in the public policy space: the need for clarity, integrity, and responsibility in economic analysis and communication.

“In recent months, we have witnessed how unclear communication or imprecise use of statistics, particularly around sensitive issues such as debt sustainability, can sow confusion and erode public confidence,” Dr. Eyob remarked. “In today’s fast-moving information environment, rigor and clarity are not optional—they are essential.”

He emphasized the EEA’s unique responsibility as a trusted and independent economic institution to uphold the highest standards of analysis and avoid sensationalism or politicized interpretations.

Dr. Eyob underscored the Ministry of Finance’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the EEA and other institutions that share a commitment to informed, evidence-based policymaking.

The annual international Conference on the Ethiopian Economy brings together leading economists, academics, policymakers, and practitioners to deliberate on key economic developments and policy directions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance, Ethiopia.

Source: APO

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The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia and in his own name extended heartfelt felicitations and best wishes to the Government and People of the Republic of Colombia, on the auspicious occasion marking the 215th Independence Anniversary of that country  on July 20, 2025.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, in the message to his Colombian counterpart, His Excellency Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, President Boakai congratulated the Republic of Colombia on the election to the Non-Permanent seat to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).     

The Liberian leader noted that as the Colombian people celebrate this milestone, he assured them of Liberia’s commitment to the bonds cooperation and friendship subsisting between the two countries and peoples which has continue to be increasingly enhanced. 

He then prayed that His Excellency will continue to be endowed with wisdom, good health and happiness, as he leads the people of Colombia to a prosperous future.

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

Source: APO

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President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., departed the country earlier today, June 19, 2025, to participate in the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES), taking place from June 20–21, 2025, in Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The West Africa Economic Summit brings together Heads of State, senior government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners from across the region to explore strategies for accelerating trade, investment, and regional integration. The summit is a key platform for shaping policies and partnerships that promote sustainable economic growth, job creation, and industrial development across West Africa.

President Boakai is scheduled to address the WAES Forum, where he will articulate Liberia’s vision for economic transformation and present investment opportunities in critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, tourism, and digital innovation.

He will also hold a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with fellow regional leaders, investors, and institutions to advance Liberia’s development agenda and secure meaningful economic partnerships.

The WAES is being convened in fulfillment of a commitment made by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his chairmanship of ECOWAS in 2023 to organize a special summit focused on trade and investment in the region. The forum will culminate in the ECOWAS Summit of Heads of State and Government on Sunday, June 22, where leaders will deliberate on pressing regional issues including economic cooperation, peace and security, and sustainable development.

The President is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising the following officials:

1. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti – Minister of Foreign Affairs
2. Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan – Minister of Finance and Development Planning
3. Hon. Magdalene Dagoseh – Minister of Commerce
4. Hon. Alexander Nuetah – Minister of Agriculture
5. Hon. Wilmot Paye – Minister of Mines and Energy
6. Hon. Jerolinmek Piah – Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture
7. Hon. Jeff Blibo – Chairman, National Investment Commission
8. Hon. Samuel A. Stevquoah – Minister of State Without Portfolio for Special Services
9. Hon. Samuel Kofi Woods II – National Security Advisor
10. Hon. Morley Kamara – Senior Economic Advisor to the President
11. Hon. Sekou Dukuly – Managing Director, National Port Authority
12. Hon. Amos Tweh – Managing Director, Liberia Petroleum Refining Company
13. Hon. Christopher Onanuga – Special Envoy for Tourism
14. Hon. Mohammed Bah – Special Envoy for Trade and Investments
This President is also traveling with his teams on communication, security and protocol.

While the President is away, the Minister of Justice, Cllr. Oswald Tweh, will chair the Cabinet in consultation with the President via telephone, ensuring continued oversight and coordination of national governance.

Following the conclusion of the summit, the President and his delegation will return to Liberia on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of Liberia: Executive Mansion.

Source: APO

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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, warmly welcomes the signing of the Peace Agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo / March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) today in Doha, Qatar. This significant development marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability in eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.

He applauds the constructive role played by the United States Administration and the State of Qatar, and acknowledges the invaluable contributions of all stakeholders, including the regional facilitators from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

He extends special thanks to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, for his continued dedication and positive engagement in advancing peace and stability across Africa.

The Chairperson further commends the tireless efforts of the AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation, H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, and the AU-appointed Mediator, H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Republic.

He also salutes the spirit of dialogue, compromise, and political will demonstrated by the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda. This breakthrough offers renewed hope for regional cooperation and sustainable peace.

The African Union remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the Peace Agreement and to contribute to sustainable peace, security, and development in the DRC and the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

Source: APO – Report:

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Ghana’s oil and gas sector is showing clear signs of resurgence, underscored by Eni’s recent declaration of commerciality for the Eban-Akoma complex in the Cape Three Points Block 4. Estimated to hold between 500 and 700 million barrels of oil equivalent, the find marks the country’s largest offshore discovery in years and lies adjacent to Eni’s existing Sankofa production hub, allowing for rapid and cost-efficient development. 

The African Energy Chamber (AEC), as the voice of Africa’s energy sector, welcomes and strongly supports this development as a significant step forward in Ghana’s upstream revival. Together with other recent industry milestones – including 15-year license extensions granted to Tullow Oil and Kosmos Energy – it signals growing confidence in Ghana’s potential and stands as a testament to the bold measures taken by President John Mahama’s administration to restore momentum and investor trust in the sector. 

Ghana Secures Long-Term Energy Commitments  

Last month, Tullow Oil and Kosmos Energy – alongside partners PetroSA, Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC) and Explorco – signed a Memorandum of Understanding to secure the extension of petroleum licenses in the Jubilee and TEN fields through 2040. While the Eban-Akoma discovery points to Ghana’s geological upside, the agreement with Tullow and Kosmos underscores the country’s institutional capacity to drive and sustain long-term energy growth. 

At the center of both developments is a renewed focus on production-led investment. Eni is preparing a development plan to bring its new find online, while Tullow and Kosmos have committed up to $2 billion to drill 20 new wells in Jubilee. These aren’t speculative ventures – they’re anchored in existing infrastructure, supported by regulatory clarity and structured to deliver returns for both investors and the Ghanaian state. The resulting uplift in oil and gas production will expand the country’s revenue base through GNPC equity, royalties and taxes – laying the groundwork for greater investment in national development priorities such as healthcare, education and infrastructure. Crucially, Ghana’s ability to secure long-term upstream commitments also sends a strong signal to global markets that the country is stable, serious and investment-ready. 

Expanded Output to Power Industry and Jobs  

Energy security is also central to both projects. Eni already supplies a large portion of Ghana’s domestic gas needs, and Eban-Akoma will enhance that capacity. ​​Under the extended production license agreement, Tullow and Kosmos have committed to delivering 130 million standard cubic feet of gas per day from the Jubilee and TEN fields, supported by a restructured pricing and payment model that enhances access for power producers and industrial users. These volumes are vital for stabilizing the power sector, strengthening energy-intensive industries and supporting job creation. With sustained drilling and field optimization, Ghana’s proven and probable reserves will continue to grow, further strengthening its resource base and outlook. 

Ghana’s institutional capacity also stands to benefit. Partnerships between Eni, Tullow and Kosmos and national bodies like GNPC and the Petroleum Commission include frameworks for knowledge transfer, technical support and regulatory alignment – all of which strengthen the country’s ability to manage its energy resources. Eni’s ongoing expansion, along with Tullow and Kosmos’ drilling programs, is expected to directly and indirectly support thousands of jobs across engineering, logistics, fabrication and services, while creating new opportunities for Ghanaian companies to play a greater role in the oil and gas value chain. 

“Ghana is proving that a clear regulatory environment, strong national institutions and consistent political will can unlock real energy growth,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “The Eban-Akoma discovery and the government’s smart approach to extending production at Jubilee and TEN are exactly the kinds of moves that send a message to global investors: Ghana is open for business and serious about long-term energy security.” 

As Ghana works to revitalize its upstream sector and accelerate economic growth, these commitments represent crucial milestones that strengthen the country’s reputation as a dependable oil and gas producer while driving energy security, building institutional capacity, creating jobs and fueling sustainable development. 

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Centre for Gender Development (CCDG), in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Family and Children, has initiated a national training workshop on the prevention of and response to gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 June 2025 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

As part of the implementation of the regional strategy adopted in 2021 to eradicate violence against women and girls in the community, the three-day meeting brought together judicial, health and social actors with the aim of strengthening their skills and coordinating a holistic approach to the care of victims of violence. The aim was to strengthen participants’ skills in the prevention, detection and management of GBV and sexual harassment.

Speaking at the opening, Moussa Diarassouba, Chief of Staff representing the Minister for Women, stressed the urgency of taking action. “These overwhelming figures are voices crying out for justice, redress and protection. Inaction is no longer an option,” he warned. He called on judicial actors to guarantee access to justice and fight against impunity, including health professionals to become more involved in the medical and psychological care of victims, and social workers to support survivors in their social and economic reintegration.

The ECOWAS Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Fanta Cissé, praised the efforts of the Ivorian government, which have enabled Côte d’Ivoire to take the lead in the fight against GBV. She did not fail to call on everyone to mobilise more strongly against the multiple forms of violence, which have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘The challenges are immense and require the combined efforts of all to achieve zero tolerance for gender-based violence and sexual harassment,’ she said.

For her part, the Director of the CCDG, Ms Sandra Oulaté-Fattoh, said that professionals and other actors have a key role to play in the early recognition, appropriate treatment and support of survivors of such violence. “To fulfil this role effectively, you need adequate training to enable you to recognise the signs and symptoms of gender-based violence and sexual harassment, even in cases where victims do not explicitly disclose their situation. This includes awareness of the different forms of violence, including physical, sexual, psychological and economic, as well as the cultural and social contexts that influence these situations,” she emphasised.

As a reminder, in the ECOWAS region, more than 10% of women experience physical, sexual or emotional violence, often within the family. This situation has been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seen cases of GBV skyrocket, with an increase of up to 50% in some countries in the region. Côte d’Ivoire alone recorded 9,607 cases of gender-based violence in 2024, affecting 7,950 women and 3,290 children, according to official figures.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).