Category: English

Posted on

United States (U.S.) Africa Command Commander Visits West Africa, Underscores Partnership in Addressing Evolving Terrorism Threat

Source: APO


.

General Dagvin Anderson conducted a visit to Benin and Cameroon September 16-20, 2025, his first visit to the region as Commander, U.S. Africa Command. The trip highlighted the strong and enduring security partnerships between the United States and these key West African nations.

In Benin, Anderson met with President Patrice Talon; Minister of Defense, Dr. Alain Fortunet Nauatin; Chief of Defense Staff, Major General Fructueux Gbaguidi; and U.S. Ambassador to Benin Brian Shukan. In Cameroon, Anderson met with President Paul Biya; Minister of Defense Joseph Beti Assomo; Brigadier General Donatien Melingui Nouma, Inspector in charge of Forces at the Defense Head Quarters; and U.S. Ambassador to Cameroon Christopher John Lamora.

Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in addressing shared security challenges, particularly the migrating terrorism threats that have made Africa now the global epicenter of this evolving danger. The Coastal West African nations expressed concerns about Sahel-based threats and a desire to enhance partnerships with American forces.

“These engagements were invaluable opportunities to reinforce our commitment to our partners in West Africa,” said Anderson. “The terrorist threat has evolved, requiring increased vigilance and coordinated action. Partnerships and coordination in West Africa remain key to countering the escalating terrorism in the region. Without partnering to address terrorism, Africa becomes the next 9/11 source. We are here to strategically support efforts that strengthen and enable our African partners’ operational independence.”

Key topics discussed during the visit included:

*   Counter Terrorism: Exploring collaborative strategies to combat the evolving threat of terrorist organizations, working to degrade and disrupt threats, and enhancing regional cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.

*   Maritime security: Identifying opportunities to enhance maritime domain awareness, combat piracy and illegal fishing, and secure vital waterways, thereby preventing exploitation by illicit actors.

*   Security force assistance: Discussing ways to further develop security force assistance programs, including professional military education and training, to enhance the capabilities of partner militaries. The U.S. military continues to support regional partners in the Sahel and West Africa through security cooperation training, equipment transfers, institutional capacity building, and support for security sector governance.

*   Regional stability and interoperability: Promoting regional cooperation and interoperability to address shared security challenges.

Anderson reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting regional-led solutions to regional security challenges. He reaffirmed that U.S. Africa Command will continue to work closely with its African partners to promote security, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The visit builds upon the strong foundation of existing partnerships and reinforces U.S. Africa Command’s dedication to supporting African partners in addressing their security challenges.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Cameroon.

Posted on

Sierra Leone’s President Bio Celebrates Sierra Leone’s Decade of Leadership at G7+ Summit

Source: APO


.

His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has delivered a keynote address at the Annual g7+ High-Level Summit held on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, celebrating Sierra Leone’s ten-year stewardship of the global coalition of fragile and conflict-affected states.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s journey, President Bio spoke about how the nation, has transformed into a leader entrusted with guiding the g7+, barely two decades after emerging from civil conflict,. “We have proven that fragility is not a destiny, but a condition that can be overcome, with the right tools, trust, and time,” he said.

Under Sierra Leone’s chairmanship, the g7+ achieved significant milestones, including championing the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States, securing Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies, attaining Observer Status at the UN General Assembly, and delivering its first-ever statement at the UN Security Council during Sierra Leone’s 2024 presidency.

The President praised the solidarity within the coalition, particularly through fragile-to-fragile cooperation, which has supported member states in elections, peace processes, and health crises. He emphasized that “those who have lived in fragility are best placed to guide others out of it.”

Looking ahead, President Bio called for greater unity and sovereign development among g7+ members in confronting climate change, unsustainable debt, pandemics, and geopolitical rivalries. He stressed the need for fair and predictable financing and stronger advocacy for climate justice and debt relief.

As Sierra Leone handed over leadership to the Solomon Islands, President Bio expressed pride in the progress made and confidence in the future of the coalition. “Our scars have become strategies. Our unity has become strength. And our vision is unwavering: no country should be left behind simply because its journey began from a place of fragility,” he affirmed.

The President concluded with a call for renewed commitment to the founding principle of the g7+: “no decisions about us, without us.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.

Posted on

Call for caution on the roads this Heritage Day

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for caution on the roads this Heritage Day

Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) and other law enforcement agencies are maintaining a strong presence on the province’s roads as the country commemorates Heritage Day today.

“The Gauteng Traffic Police together with other law enforcement agencies will maintain a strong presence on Gauteng roads to ensure safety, compliance and act against any offenders of the law,” said the GTP in a statement.

The GTP called on the public to prioritise their safety as they travel with their families and friends to attend different cultural gatherings and events across Gauteng and beyond.

“All road users are encouraged to exercise caution, patience and to adhere to traffic laws. Motorists are reminded to drive within the prescribed speed limits, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, and always ensure that vehicles are roadworthy before travelling.”

In addition, the GTP urged the public to respect and safeguard the heritage sites they visit, and to report any form of vandalism to their nearest police station.

“This Heritage Day, let us celebrate our rich history and culture by embracing our collective responsibility to build a safer, more secure Gauteng for all,” it said.-SAnews.gov.za

 

 

Neo

155 views

Posted on

President Ramaphosa calls for an end to Gaza conflict 

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa calls for an end to Gaza conflict 

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) where he stressed the importance of taking action to stop the conflict in Gaza.

“Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Just last week, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry found that Israel is responsible for the commission of genocide in Gaza. As Palestinians continue to face genocide and famine, we have a duty to act,” said the President in his address on Tuesday.

His remarks came in the wake of a report by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry that found Israel responsible for acts of genocide against Palestine.

President Ramaphosa emphasised the need for international cooperation and solidarity in addressing global challenges. 

Reflecting on the founding principles of the United Nations, he reminded the assembly that the organisation was established “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war and build a peaceful, prosperous and just world arising from the devastation brought about by global conflict.”

He cited the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who recently reported that global military expenditure has reached historic highs just as the world is falling behind on its core development promises.  
“We are building weapons when we should be building social infrastructure.  We must act decisively to silence all guns, everywhere, to realise the goal of sustainable development and global peace.” 

He stressed that it is essential now more than ever to uphold the values of the United Nations (UN). 
“We are called upon to advance cooperation and solidarity between nations,” he said as he highlighted South Africa’s commitment to eradicate poverty and inequality both domestically and across the African continent.

As South Africa gets ready to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit for the first time on African soil in November, President Ramaphosa emphasised the theme of this year’s presidency: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.”

He highlighted the ongoing challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, attributing the obstacles partly to the insufficient financial resources available in developing economies.

Many countries in the Global South, particularly in Africa, are grappling with high debts, which inhibit investments in health and education. 

“They are indebted and are paying more on debt servicing than they do on health and education,” Ramaphosa added, advocating for “fairer lending rules” to help these countries meet their development goals.

The President also highlighted the need for reform in international financial institutions to address global challenges better, emphasising that “the multilateral trading system needs to be reformed.”

Trade 

He reaffirmed the World Trade Organisation’s essential role in managing trade differences but expressed concern over geopolitical shocks and trade policy volatility threatening global economic stability.

“Unilateral trade practices and economic coercion have a detrimental impact on many nations,” he stated, specifically calling for an end to the long-standing economic embargo against Cuba, which he characterised as having caused “untold damage to the country’s economy over the years.”

On the other hand, the President pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area as a model for sustainable economic growth and cooperation. 

He also announced the launch of an Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Wealth Inequality, chaired by Nobel laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz. 

This committee is tasked with delivering a report on global inequality to G20 leaders, signifying South Africa’s proactive approach to addressing pressing global economic disparities.

Climate change

Shifting his focus to climate change, the country’s Head of State warned that climate change is an existential threat. 

“We are failing future generations by our inability to reduce global warming.” 
He stressed that while Africa contributes least to climate change, it bears the brunt of its effects, witnessing extreme weather events that exacerbate food insecurity and displace populations. 

“Extreme weather events like floods and droughts are driving food insecurity, displacing populations, causing damage to infrastructure and leading to the unnecessary loss of livelihoods.”

He called Member States to honour their undertakings and commitments in line with the guiding principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile

0 views

Posted on

Bahrain: Foreign Minister meets Somali counterpart

Source: APO

Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Abdisalam Abdi Ali, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Government of Somalia, at the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations in New York. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.

Dr. Al Zayani congratulated the Somali Foreign Minister on his appointment, emphasising Bahrain’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Somalia in means that serve shared interests and benefit both countries and their peoples. He highlighted the Kingdom’s intention to enhance joint cooperation and coordination with Somalia through their non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council, wishing him success in his diplomatic duties.

The meeting also reviewed the established relations between the two countries and peoples, identifying opportunities to further develop and enhance cooperation across various domains. The discussion included an exchange of views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest.

The meeting was attended by Ambassador Jamal Faris Al Ruwaie, Permanent Representative of Bahrain to the UN in New York, and Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director General of Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Media files

.

Posted on

European Union and Kenya celebrate commitment to Kenya’s clean energy future with new I’ve Got the Power campaign

Source: APO

The European Union (EU) has launched the I’ve Got the Power campaign in Kenya, celebrating the strong collaboration between Kenya and the EU for a more prosperous and sustainable future for all. The campaign focuses on the shared commitment to accessible, reliable clean energy and the transformative impact of EU-supported initiatives in Kenya, which aim to provide renewable solutions for individuals and local communities.

The EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy represents the backbone of the campaign, exemplified by initiatives like the Last Mile Connectivity Programme. This programme is expanding electricity access in rural Kenya by connecting households located near distribution transformers to the national grid. By delivering reliable, cleaner power to families, schools and small businesses across 32 counties, the initiative supports Kenya’s universal electrification goals and reduces dependence on polluting fuels. It plays a vital role in advancing the country’s clean energy transition while improving health, education and economic opportunities in underserved communities.

Henriette Geiger, European Union Ambassador to Kenya, says:

 “The transition to renewable energy is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s about creating a more sustainable future for the people, the planet, and local economies. Through this campaign, we want people to not only understand the importance of sustainable energy but also, to realise how this transition can positively impact their lives and future.”

Renewable energy is transforming lives across Kenya, empowering communities through sustainable and reliable infrastructure. For fashion designer Austin, the impact is personal – reliable electricity ensures his workshop runs without power interruptions, enabling him to meet client demands and grow his business. Similarly, Catheline, a boda boda rider, now uses an electric bike to run her delivery business, helping her earn a stable income. These real-life examples highlight how renewable energy not only supports environmental goals but also enhances public safety and nurtures local talent. Discover more about the campaign and inspiring stories of sustainable energy at energyoftomorrow.ke. 

Kenya’s progress is part of a broader vision for Africa – one championed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa who lead the Scaling up Renewables in Africa pledging campaign. Africa has the potential to lead the global clean energy transition, yet millions across the continent still lack access to electricity. This campaign, delivered through the EU’s Global Gateway, seeks to change that by accelerating access to clean, reliable power while creating jobs and driving long-term development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Delegation of the European Union to Kenya.

Media files

.

Posted on

Qatar Participates in Heads of State Meeting on the Day After in Gaza

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 23, 2025

The State of Qatar participated in the meeting of heads of state and government on the day after in Gaza and efforts to achieve stability, held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The State of Qatar was represented by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.

In his address to the meeting, HE Dr. Al Khulaifi stressed that the issue of the day after must go beyond mere reconstruction and serve as a genuine starting point for a just, comprehensive, and lasting settlement of the Palestinian question, noting that only then could stability take root in Gaza, the West Bank, and the entire region.

He explained that Qatar has long been at the forefront of partners supporting the Palestinian people by providing humanitarian and development assistance, out of a belief in the need to revive hope among Gaza’s population and create the conditions for stability. Drawing on this experience, he said that reconstruction and stabilization cannot be achieved through isolated efforts but require a collective responsibility from the international community.

HE Dr. Al Khulaifi pointed out that the people of Gaza have endured unbearable conditions for many years, and that the current conflict has brought destruction beyond buildings and infrastructure, reaching the very foundations of life itself, health, education, governance, and the rule of law.

His Excellency noted that the current Israeli government has openly declared its intention to prolong the war and even carried out an attack on Qatar while it was hosting peace negotiations.

He said this assault was not only a violation of sovereignty but also a direct attack on the very principle of mediation, warning that such actions threaten not only Gaza but also the broader principle of peaceful conflict resolution.

HE the Minister emphasized that planning for Gaza’s future cannot be delayed. He said that the day after must be led by Palestinians under the auspices of the Palestinian Authority and in accordance with United Nations principles, and that international partners in Europe and the Arab world must be ready to support this process without imposing it or exercising guardianship over it.

His Excellency affirmed that Palestinians must shape their own future, that their right to their land is non-negotiable, and that any plans for forced displacement, reoccupation, or settlement expansion must be rejected.

He added that Gaza’s future cannot be separated from that of the West Bank and the other occupied Palestinian territories, where the Palestinian people face daily repression, and therefore any sustainable plan must encompass all the occupied Palestinian lands.

Posted on

Qatar Participates in First Ministerial OIC Meeting on Afghanistan

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 23, 2025

The State of Qatar participated today in the first ministerial meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Contact Group on Afghanistan, held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The State of Qatar was represented by Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.

In his address to the meeting, Dr. Al Khulaifi stressed the vital importance of this contact group, noting that it convened at a critical moment when Afghanistan’s humanitarian, economic, and political conditions require a collective commitment to stability and support for the Afghan people.

He offered the State of Qatar’s sincere condolences to the victims of the recent devastating earthquake in Afghanistan and extended heartfelt sympathies to their families and loved ones.

Dr. Al Khulaifi emphasized the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations and cooperation and to ensure effective implementation of the group’s decisions. He said the Afghan people are facing unprecedented hardships and that it is the duty of OIC member states to unite and facilitate meaningful dialogue and support.

He recalled that the State of Qatar has long dedicated itself to this cause, launching the Doha Peace Process on Afghanistan in 2013 to seek peaceful solutions through dialogue and preventive diplomacy. As part of these efforts, Qatar has helped facilitate numerous dialogues among Afghan factions, contributing to an inclusive political process that engages all segments of society.

Dr. Al Khulaifi highlighted Qatar’s hosting of the UN-led Doha Process, which began with the UN Secretary-General’s meetings of special envoys on Afghanistan in May 2023, February 2024, and July 2024. Within this framework, the State of Qatar recently hosted the third meeting of the counter-narcotics working group and the second meeting of the Private Sector Working Group on Jun. 30 and Jul. 1, respectively.

He added that as this OIC mission takes shape, the State of Qatar stands ready to strengthen cooperation among member states, monitor progress, address ongoing humanitarian needs, and support the Afghan people while ensuring constructive engagement between Afghanistan’s caretaker government and the international community, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2721 of December 2023.

Dr. Al Khulaifi reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to continuing its long-term humanitarian, development, and diplomatic efforts to support the Afghan people, especially during this critical period.

Posted on

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Iranian Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 24, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Abbas Aragchi, on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The meeting dealt with discussing bilateral cooperation between the two countries, the latest regional developments and especially in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, in addition to several issues of joint interest.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed during the meeting on the importance of intensifying regional and international efforts to de-escalate in the region through dialogue and peaceful means.

Posted on

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Affirms Importance of Independent, Sovereign Palestinian State

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 23, 2025

The independent and sovereign Palestinian statehood should rise, said HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi.

His Excellency added that the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution in New York remains historic on the path toward the settlement of the Palestinian cause.

Delivering the State of Qatar’s speech before the conference, His Excellency pointed out that this global action comes within two contexts, one of them is historic and pertains to ending a decades-long oppression of the Palestinian people, the occupation of their territory, and the commission of all crimes against them.

The second one represents the worsening situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, in particular, with the Gaza Strip being decimated, along with the rising violence against the West Bank on the part of Israel, HE Al Muraikhi noted.

He further noted the irresponsible Israeli escalation that targeted several countries of the region, including the State of Qatar on Sept. 9, 2025, in a brazen breach of international law, holding the Israeli government fully responsible for its rogue aggression against the State of Qatar.

Al Muraikhi further indicated that the Gaza enclave has become devastated almost entirely, while the West Bank is being subjected to savage violence and dangerous practices that include taking over the territories, expanding the settlements, and desecrating the sacred sites.