A Federal Foreign Office Spokesperson issued the following statement today (31 January) on the election of the new Chairperson of the African Union, Alpha Condé, and the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat: 

"The future of our neighbouring continent Africa is of paramount importance for Europe. The African Union’s representativeness and ability to act are therefore also important for Germany.

"As the voice of Africa at the global level, the African Union benefits from the membership of all the continent’s countries.The African Union filled two top positions for the next term at its 28th summit in Addis Ababa yesterday. We welcome these appointments and intend to work closely with both leaders.

"The African Union must play an increasingly important role with respect to the ongoing political and economic integration of Africa. Africa is taking responsibility in the area of peace and security, especially with regard to conflict prevention and conflict management, as well as in its efforts to build up the continent’s peace and security architecture. Germany and the European Union intend to cooperate with the African Union in a spirit of partnership and support the organisation's efforts to strengthen its structures."