Cairo, Egypt – H.E. Sameh Shoukry, Minister of Foreign Affairs hosted a reception in celebration of Africa Day, marking the anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963. The Minister affirmed Egypt’s commitment to promote African cooperation in achieving the aspirations of its peoples.

The ceremony was attended by African Ambassadors in Cairo, as well as public figures and senior Egyptian officials. During the ceremony, Minister Shoukry shed light on the pressing challenges to peace, security and prosperity in Africa, pointing out the collective responsibility of African countries to find solutions, so as to protect the present and secure the future for generations to come.

Recognizing the interlinkages between Peace and Sustainable development, Minister Shoukry briefed attendees on the ongoing preparation for “The Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development”. The forum is the first of its kind platform in Africa to address the nexus, with a focus on its operationalization, including by leveraging the complimentary mandates and expertise of various actors and stakeholders.